"Remember your first Love."

We all know people who have drifted away from the faith who blame it on how they were treated by fellow Christians -- especially pastors and those in leadership. A bitter root took hold of their hearts and soon they perceived the church as a sham and it reflected on their view of Christ.

Also, many of us have been told that we are the ones who have closed the door of salvation to others because we were dogmatic in our shining the light of Scripture upon their faulty thinking.

Recently a Christian-turned-atheist told me on a blog discussion that he rejected the faith because of people like me who reflect the sort of talk our Master used. In other words, we're right and everyone else is wrong.

He was pointing the finger at everyone but himself for his rejection of God. I challenged the new atheist with a verse that really sent him into a rage:

“For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed." - John 3:20

To those who have been falsely accused of being the cause of others not to receive the grace of God -- just stop it. It is not your fault. You may be their excuse to continue walking in darkness, but each person is accountable for his/her own position with their Maker.

And to those who are angry at professing Christians who have hurt you-- do not harden your heart. If you do, you lose. Is it the church that you committed your life to, or was it Jesus? Did you fall in love with Jesus - or some group of believers you thought would dispel your loneliness?

Put no one between you and the LORD Christ Jesus. When your eyes are fully upon Him and you love Him from the depths of your being, ain't no one gonna be able to get between you and your First Love.

There's enough blame to go around for those who are looking for a scapegoat for their own dark hearts. Your faith will be tested -- don't fail the test.

Set your heart of the beauty of the LORD. Keep your eyes on the Prize. His coming for us is near.

"Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded."
- James 4:8

"Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent."
- Rev 2:4-5