‘Thus saith the Lord; “Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord.” – Jeremiah 17:5 (KJV)
It is quite possible for a believer’s heart to grow cold toward God. That person who once acknowledged God in everything, who longed for constant fellowship and sought after God with all their heart, could become distracted. Their prayer life could be interrupted by sudden riches, fame, and/or great success, and they begin to find little time to be in God’s presence and in His Word.
When life becomes easier materially, some believers find comfort in the things and people around them, and as they accumulate, they tend to make the excuse of being busy. Gradually, the heart’s desire for God’s presence in their life diminishes. The Holy Spirit’s conviction is no longer heeded, and they become less uncomfortable with less of God.
This is a dangerous place to be because if we walk away from His presence, we can no longer be assured of His protection and His provision. Here is where the enemy steps in, and we begin to feel the effects of prayerless living. The love, joy, peace, and all the fruit of the Spirit are no longer in operation in our lives. We become callous.
Friends, let us run back to God, Who is never far from us. Let us regard the state of our heart and begin again to seek out our Father in heaven, Who does not reward us as we deserve. He has compassion and will readily forgive if we repent.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we ask forgiveness for every thought, word, and deed in our lives that is contrary to Your Word and commandments. Cleanse us from secret sins and let them not have dominion over us. Thank You for the blood of Jesus that cleanses us from all unrighteousness. Give us the strength to resist every thought of evil, Lord. We want our hearts to be Your dwelling place that we may continually do Your will, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Read: Psalm 103:8-10; Matthew 12:34-35
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 119:1-8; 1 Thessalonians 1; 1 Thessalonians 2:1-16; Jeremiah 18; Jeremiah 19; Jeremiah 20