Which Is It?

They worked tirelessly without growing weary. They endured hardship after hardship for the sake of Christ. They persevered when others folded. They fearlessly exposed hypocrisy in the church, unswerving in their dedication to truth. What a resume! The early church at Ephesus set an example for all of us. Except for one little glitch…

They abandoned the love they had at first. Their initial love for Jesus waned to the point that they loved the work of being a Christian more than they loved Christ. It turns out it was more than a small glitch. The Lord warned them that if they didn’t repent, they would lose their light.

Forgetting our first love is a slippery slope. It can happen in almost any area of life. It occurs in marriages when husbands and wives become so engrossed in the duties of family life that they no longer cultivate the love that first drew them together. It happens in causes we fight for. We begin with a deep concern for victims of injustice, poverty, or abuse. We work hard to see wrongs righted, but if we’re not careful, the cause itself consumes our love.

Does any of this describe you? If so, the Apostle John brings good news. Return wholeheartedly to the Lord! Then intentionally go back and do the things you used to do to reignite the flame of love for Christ. Tear down the idols of your good works and lay them at the cross of grace.

Love your labor, yes — but love the One you labor for above all else.

Father, forgive us for loving anything or anyone more than you. Please help us rekindle our love for you and not get caught up in all the things we do. We pray we do not forsake you as our first love. Amen.

Throughout This Day: Turn your eyes upon Jesus, worshipping, praising and thanking him as you go from task to task.