A Love Relationship

To the angel of the church in Ephesus write…I know your deeds and your toil and perseverance […] But I have this against you, that you have left your first love.—Revelation 2:1–4 NASB

Many believers in Ephesus were diligent about their faith. But in the vision God gave John, Jesus revealed He was not pleased with them; He was disappointed. Why? They were focused on activity. While their actions were important, the condition of their heart was more important.

The Bible is full of reminders about what is important to God. He was concerned that these Ephesians had the wrong priorities. He was concerned they had left their first love. To Him, that was more important than all their “toil and perseverance.”

What were His priorities? We are to seek first His Kingdom (Matthew 6:33). Remember that the greatest commandment is to love Him with our heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37). Remember that the essence of the Gospel is“God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son” (John 3:16).

What happened to these Ephesians can happen to any of us. The initial love that drew us to Jesus can fade over time. We can become busy. Our schedules can be filled with activities, even church work and Bible study. We can find ourselves working for the Lord but failing to develop our relationship with Him.

Today, focus on your personal relationship with Jesus. That relationship is more important than any activity. Spend time with Him. Listen to Him. Give Him first place in your heart.

Reflection Question: How can you refocus your heart on giving Jesus first place today?