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September 23, 2023
Jesus told the church at Ephesus three things:
1) Remember. ‘Remember…from what heights you have fallen’ (v. 5). Instead of focusing on the depth to which you have fallen, think about the height you once knew. Not the worst of times, but the best. Recall when spending time in prayer and the Scriptures was the highlight of your day. What were you doing then that you’re not doing now?
2) Repent. This word means to change your mind, your direction, and your actions. You can’t solve a problem with the same thinking and behaviors that caused it; new thinking and actions are required. When the Prodigal Son reached the pigpen, he realized he had hit the bottom. That’s when he said, ‘I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you”’ (Luke 15:18). And his father forgave and restored him. How does his story end? He exchanged his rags for the robe of sonship and took his rightful place at the family table. And that can happen for you too.
3) Repeat. ‘Do the things you did at first’ (Revelation 2:5). Make a list of the things you did when your relationship with the Lord was great, then prayerfully commit yourself to doing them again each day. And don’t wait until you feel like it. Do it until you feel it, until the joy of your first love reignites. Do you doubt that God will be gracious to you? Read this: ‘You are a God of forgiveness, gracious and merciful…rich in unfailing love. You did not abandon them’ (Nehemiah 9:17).
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