There is something truly beautiful about the beginning of every Christian’s walk with God. Do you remember those early days after you first met Jesus? Your heart was on fire. Prayer felt effortless. Worship flowed from your lips like a song you couldn’t stop singing. You longed to be in God’s presence, read His Word, and tell everyone about the One who had saved you. That, dear reader, is what Scripture calls our first love.
In Revelation 2:4, Jesus addresses the church in Ephesus, saying, “Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.” The Ephesians were a strong, disciplined church. They worked hard, resisted false teachings, and endured trials. However, in the eyes of the Lord, something essential was missing—the warmth and passion of their first love for Him.
What is the First Love?
Our first love is that pure, undivided affection we had for Christ when He first touched our hearts. It’s the kind of love that flows from gratitude and awe—the love of someone who realizes they’ve been rescued from darkness into marvelous light. It is personal, intimate, and full of joy.
But over time, life happens. Responsibilities build up. Ministry becomes routine. We start doing the right things with the wrong heart. The fire cools, and love turns into mere duty. That’s when Jesus calls us to remember where we once were.
Remember, Repent, and Return
In Revelation 2:5, Jesus gives us a three-step call to restoration:
- Remember – Go back in your mind to where it all began. Recall the passion you once had, the nights you prayed with tears, and the joy of simply being close to God.
- Repent – Turn from the distractions, the busyness, and anything that has taken His place in your heart.
- Return – Do the “first works” again—spend time in prayer, study the Word, worship sincerely, and serve out of love, not obligation.
Why the First Love Matters
Losing our first love is a serious matter. Without it, Christianity becomes routine. The sense of God’s presence feels far away, and the joy of salvation diminishes. Our first love is what drives our devotion, keeps our hearts tender, and gives meaning to our service.
When we return to our first love, we experience renewal. Our hearts soften once again. Our worship regains its strength. Our ministries come alive, and our witness becomes genuine and impactful—because love is the most incredible testimony a Christian can offer.
conclusion
A Call to Rekindle the Flame
The world today is filled with noise, distraction, and spiritual dryness. But God is calling His people back to intimacy with Him. Revival starts, not with large crowds, but with one heart that chooses to love Jesus more deeply again.
Dear believer, if your fire has flickered, don’t lose hope. Jesus is still standing at your heart’s door, knocking. He doesn’t accuse; He calls. Open the door again. Let His Spirit fill your love for Him with new life.
May we all, like the Ephesians, hear His gentle warning and respond with renewed passion—loving Jesus not just with our lips, but with all our hearts.
By Apostle Seth Gakpetor
TAC-GH Kaneshie Area Superintendent
Leave a Reply