Progressive Baptist Church

Morning Manna: *Our First Love"

"Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works..."
Revelations 2:4-5

It is possible to be busy for God and yet drift away from God.
The church at Ephesus was doctrinally sound, hardworking, and faithful in many ways. They served, endured hardship, and stood for truth. Yet Jesus pointed out a serious problem: they had left their first love.

Notice that Jesus did not say they lost their first love; He said they left it. Their love for Him had gradually been replaced by routine, responsibility, and religious activity.
The same can happen to us. We can attend church, serve in ministry, sing in the choir, teach Bible study, and still find our hearts growing distant from the Lord. What once was a passionate relationship becomes a religious routine.

Jesus gives the remedy:
Remember — Recall the joy, passion, and intimacy you once had with Him.

Repent — Turn away from whatever has taken His place in your heart.

Return — Go back to the things that nurtured your relationship with Christ: prayer, worship, Scripture, and obedience.

God is not looking for perfect performance; He desires a loving relationship. He wants our hearts before He wants our hands.

Today, take a moment to honestly evaluate your walk with Christ. Are you still in love with Him, or have you become comfortable with merely working for Him?
The good news is that no matter how far you've drifted, His arms remain open. The same Savior who confronts us is the Savior who welcomes us back.

Lord, forgive us for the times we have allowed routine, distractions, and other priorities to take Your place in our hearts. Restore the joy of our salvation and rekindle our love for You. Help us not merely to serve You, but to love You with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Draw us back to our first love. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Takeaway:
When love for Christ is renewed, worship becomes vibrant, service becomes joyful, and obedience becomes a delight rather than a duty.

By His grace,

Pastor Weems