Tag: Christian growth

February 23, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Drifting from God

Opening Verse

“Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.”
— James 4:8 (KJV)

Introduction

Drifting from God does not happen overnight. It begins with small compromises, little distractions, and a gradual coldness of heart. Before we know it, we find ourselves distant from His presence, wondering how we got so far.

Devotional Story

A man once lived by the ocean, enjoying the sound of the waves and the warmth of the sun. Every morning, he would take his small boat out into the water, staying close to the shore. One day, as he lay back, enjoying the breeze, he closed his eyes for what felt like only a moment.

When he opened them, he was shocked to see how far he had drifted. The shore was no longer in sight. Panic set in as he realized he had let himself go too far without noticing.

This is what happens when we neglect our walk with God. At first, it seems harmless to skip a day of prayer or to neglect reading the Word. But soon, our hearts grow distant, and sin creeps in unnoticed.

What This Means

Drifting is dangerous because it is subtle. It happens when we stop being intentional about our relationship with Christ. The world is full of distractions that can pull us away from God’s presence if we are not careful.

The good news is that no matter how far we have drifted, God is always calling us back. He is merciful and will restore us when we turn to Him with a sincere heart.

Think About This

  • Have you noticed areas in your life where you have slowly drifted from God?
  • What distractions have been keeping you from prayer and reading the Bible?
  • How can you intentionally draw near to God today?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I confess that I have allowed myself to drift from You. I have been distracted, neglecting the most important relationship in my life—my relationship with You. Forgive me, Lord. Draw me back into Your presence. Help me to seek You daily with all my heart, to love You above all else, and to never grow distant again. Thank You for Your grace and mercy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.”
— Revelation 2:4 (KJV)

October 19, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

Keeping the Flame

“Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”
– Proverbs 27:17 (KJV)

Introduction

Imagine the moment you first discover God—a spark of faith ignites within you. It’s like finding a treasure in a hidden chest. Your heart is filled with passion, and you can’t help but share the good news with everyone you meet. This initial burst of enthusiasm is a beautiful and powerful thing, much like the birth of a small flame.

Devotional

As time goes on, it’s not uncommon for that flame to flicker and seem to fade. Life’s challenges, distractions, and routine can sometimes dampen the fervor we once had. This experience is not unique; it’s like a fire that starts to lose its intensity.

But here’s where a crucial aspect of Christian faith comes into play—the importance of mutual accountability and encouragement. In the Bible, in Proverbs 27:17 (KJV), it says,

“Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.” Proverbs 27:17 (KJV)

For new believers, the early passion is often like a blazing fire. Their excitement is infectious, and they hunger for knowledge and connection with God. They are the spark that ignites others, and they inspire us with their zeal.

However, as time passes, some may notice that the veteran believers, who have been on this journey for a while, don’t always seem to have the same level of enthusiasm. It’s not that their faith has diminished, but it might appear that way from the outside.

This is where we should remember the principle of iron sharpening iron. We mustn’t lose sight of the fact that we are all on this journey together. New believers can learn from the wisdom and experience of those who have walked this path for years. Likewise, veteran believers can be rekindled by the fresh passion of newcomers.

As Christians, we should hold each other accountable and sharpen one another in faith. We are not meant to journey alone; we are a community. By being examples to one another and keeping each other on fire for God, we can ensure that our faith doesn’t just flicker but burns brightly, like an inferno that lights up the world.

Conclusion

Let us embrace the spark of new faith with joy, knowing that it’s the beginning of a beautiful journey. And let us remember that, as a community of believers, we can fan the flames of faith in one another, keeping the fire burning strong for God’s glory.

Faith Notes:

In our Christian journey, fellowship and accountability are like the wind beneath our wings. When we gather together, we ignite the flames of faith in one another, stirring up love and inspiring good works. Just as iron sharpens iron, our interactions help us grow stronger in our faith.

Remember, we’re not meant to go it alone. We are a community, a family of believers, and by encouraging and exhorting one another, we can face the challenges of life with faith and resilience. So, let’s hold each other accountable and continue to meet together, especially as we see the day of Christ’s return drawing near. In this fellowship, we find strength, unity, and a shared passion for God that keeps our faith burning brightly.

 

“And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is, but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25 (KJV)