A woman shared her frustration: “I used to pray and read my bible regularly. But now? I just don’t have the interest I once did.” Can you relate? Life is busy and complicated. Where can you find the energy to add one more commitment? The truth is that God expects us to grow spiritually, for a reason you might not have considered. One of the best results of spiritual growth is energy, tremendous energy.

 

As you read the Bible, the power of the Word of God recharges every activity you do. It brings God’s perspective on your life and on your work. Everything you do receives that divine infusion of stamina, drive, purpose,  and enthusiasm. After all, you were created by God, and for God. Adding spiritual growth to your life means adding His life back into your day.

 

So wouldn’t it be nice to return to the passion and love you felt for God when you first believed? I believe that you can “go back” to the spark of excitement and commitment you felt then. You can return to the first, powerful love you had for God.

 

Take a look at your faith life today. What is missing now that was a part of the days when you hungered for God? Do you need to return to Church? To pick up your Bible and begin again to read God’s precious Word? To kneel in prayer and nurture you prayer life all over again? To ask forgiveness from someone or from God? And what sin or obstacle do you need to let go of? Sometimes the first step forward is actually a step backward. Hosea 6:1 says: “Come, let us return to the Lord…He will heal us…he will bind up our wounds”. Return to the joy or your first love.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, I am so grateful for the day I first knew Your love and experienced Your grace. Help me return to the way of devotion and obedience. Restore to me the joy of my salvation, dear Lord. Refresh my weary spirit. Forgive me for letting my spiritual growth take second, third, fourth place in my life. I want to be fueled by a thriving faith and empowered by Your strength and vitality. I praise and thank you Lord for your grace and mercy.

 

In Jesus name I pray

 

Amen