August 5th, 2026
Scripture – “I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.”
Revelation 2:2-5 NIV
Observation – Jesus commends the church at Ephesus for their hard work and perseverance yet he holds this against them; They have forsaken him, their first love. They stopped doing the things they did at first. They are still work horses but there is no love, passion or enthusiasm for Jesus. Jesus instructs them to repent and do the things they did at first.
Application – Most people have a high level of engagement and excitement when something is new, whether it be a relationship, a job, a workout class or a new language or instrument. After a while the newness wears off and so does the passion they had at first. That may be okay for the harmonica but it isn’t okay with Jesus. When you start to lose your enthusiasm and love for him repent! Go to him and confess your sin and ask him for help and start doing the things you did at first; Witness, read your Bible more, memorize scripture and surround yourself with other people who love Jesus.
Prayer – Lord Jesus, thank you for not moving on to people who are fully committed to you. Thank you for coming back and getting us when we fall short. Amen.
What are you doing? Do it better 