RETURN TO LOVE

Relationships are the cornerstone of our existence. Good, bad, or indifferent, every single one of us exists in one in some way. How we are in those relationships is determined by a multitude of factors. Some of us are open, honest, trusting and forgiving. Others are shut off, dishonest, fearful and begrudging. How we behave in some interactions is dependent upon what we have seen and experienced in our past relationships, whether relationships with friends, family (parent or siblings), love (spouse or mate), or those at work (boss or co-worker). But one of the most fulfilling relationships that we can have is the one with our Heavenly Father, but even our connection with Him is predicated by previous relationships.

We often take our closest relationships for granted. If we are not used to trusting, it is hard for us to lean on God and to trust in Him. When we have been in long-term relationships, we have a tendency to take those that we love for granted. Because of the closeness or intimacy in that relationship some of us will lie, cheat and do other hurtful things knowing that no matter what happens we will have right standing when we get our act together.  

It often occurs in our walk with Christ, especially those of us that grew up in the church; we know we are loved, blessed, and forgiven. We have lifelong relationships with God that we grow up to take for granted. God has always been there for us so we expect Him to be. He counseled us, so we expect Him to give us the answers. He blessed us so we expect favor in our prayers to Him. Whatever the problem or circumstance, the Bible offers insight and solutions.  But often, we do not do the things that God has asked of us, until we find ourselves in trouble or caught with our pants down.  Then we want to return to His loving arms begging for forgiveness. It is a cycle seen with the Israelites exodus from Egypt. God’s provision and protection followed them on the journey, but the Israelites would soon forget and grumble about their circumstance (Numbers 14:1-4).

Stop making excuses, and return to His Love. Challenge the sinful behavior that hinders your walk with Christ, reestablish God’s Word in your life, fellowship, rejoice with other believers, and remember the love that waits for you. The unconditional love God has for us is awesome. He awaits our return with arms wide open. Scripture consistently lets us know that His love is unwavering:

He will never leave or forsake (Deuteronomy 31:6)

Cannot be separated from the love of God (Romans 8:34-39)

His mercies endure forever (Psalm 136)

Repent and return to the love that is there for you and accept it for what it is, awesome and made just for you. Meet him where you are. Do not wait to “fix” yourself because you will never go to Him. It’s like a terminally ill person waiting to get better before seeking treatment. God facilitates healing as soon as we come to Him. Do not wait. His love is ready for you now.

Prayer: Father God, we call on you to lead and guide us as we navigate our way through life. Forgive us for the distance we put in place and embrace us as we return to the love you have for us. We have dreams and goals that we want to be fulfilled and we look to you for your will to be done in our lives. Rescue us from our temptations and protect us from the evil that seeks to destroy us. Bless our families, our homes, our finances, our ministries, and all things that we do that will glorify you! Thank you for your continued grace and mercy and it is in Jesus’ name that we pray, Amen!

Read Numbers 14 in its entirety to see the outcome of God's provision to the Israelites.