Dr. Bob Munger, who was the pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Berkeley for many years, shared a powerful story with a group of pastors. One day, he stood before them and drew a large circle on the blackboard. He marked an “X” in the center and said, “For many years of my ministry, I felt like I was right where God wanted me to be. Jesus was real, important, and vital to me. But as I look back now, I realize I have drifted away.” He then placed an “X” on the outer edge of the circle and said, “I have drifted to this point. I am asking God to help me return to the center.” He asked the other pastors to pray for him Signs of Losing First Love.
God’s Restoration
I can testify that God answered Bob Munger’s prayer. He returned to his first love for Jesus and went on to many more years of fruitful ministry. It was a powerful moment when Dr. Munger did exactly what Jesus tells us to do: repent and return to the place where we once were. Jesus says, “Do the things you did at first.”
What Are “The Things You Did At First”?
What are the things that Jesus wants us to return to? These are the things we did when we first became passionate about following Him.
Reading the Bible with excitement: At first, you couldn’t get enough of God’s Word. You were eager to learn what the Bible says and how it could change your life.
Praying about everything: You prayed about all things, even small things like finding a parking space. Prayer was a natural part of your life, and you felt connected to God in every situation.
Responding to others with love and compassion: You saw the needs of people around you and helped them without complaining. You cared deeply about others and their struggles Private Tour Guide Ephesus.
Praising God with joy: You loved to praise God and thank Him for His grace. Singing hymns or thinking about God’s goodness brought you joy and filled your heart.
Return to Your First Love
Jesus calls us to return to those simple but powerful practices. If you’ve drifted away, don’t worry—it’s not too late to come back. Start by reading your Bible with fresh excitement, praying with a heart full of trust, caring for others with love, and praising God with all your heart. Jesus promises to restore you to the joy and passion you had at first.
