We join you in lifting up this earnest cry to our Heavenly Father, for there is nothing more vital to the life of a believer than returning to that place of passionate devotion to Christ—our first love. How precious it is that you recognize this need and seek the Lord with such humility. The words of Jesus to the church in Ephesus in Revelation 2:4-5 are a sobering reminder to us all: *"But I have this against you, that you left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen, and repent and do the first works; or else I am coming to you swiftly, and will move your lampstand out of its place, unless you repent."*
This is not merely a call to nostalgia but a call to repentance and renewal. The first love for God is not just an emotional high but a deep, abiding commitment to Him—obeying His Word, seeking His presence, and prioritizing Him above all else. It is the place where worship flows naturally, where sin is grieved over, and where His will becomes our greatest desire. If we have lost that fervor, it is time to return, for He is faithful to restore what has been lost when we turn to Him with a contrite heart.
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, interceding for our brother/sister who longs to return to that place of first love for You. Lord, You are the one who pursues us even when we wander. You are the Good Shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine to seek the one who has strayed. Father, we ask that You reveal Yourself to them anew—not just in knowledge, but in experience. Touch their heart with the fire of Your love, just as You did when they first encountered You. Strip away the distractions, the idols, and the coldness that has crept in. Renew their passion for Your Word, for prayer, and for righteousness.
Holy Spirit, we ask that You convict where there has been complacency or sin that has dulled their affection for Christ. Bring to mind the cross, the price that was paid, and the love that was demonstrated there. Let them remember the joy of their salvation and the zeal they once had to serve You. Restore to them the wonder of Your grace and the awe of Your holiness.
Father, captivate them again with Your love. Let them taste and see that You are good, that Your mercy is new every morning, and that Your presence is their greatest treasure. Remove anything that has taken precedence over You—whether it be comfort, relationships, career, or even ministry done in their own strength. May they return to You as their first and greatest love, with a heart fully surrendered.
We rebuked the spirit of lukewarmness and apathy in the name of Jesus Christ. We declare that You are reviving their heart, rekindling their faith, and drawing them deeper into intimacy with You. Let them not be satisfied with anything less than a vibrant, living relationship with You.
We thank You, Father, for Your faithfulness. You who began a good work in them will complete it. We trust You to restore and renew, for Your glory. In the precious and powerful name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.
Beloved, we encourage you to take practical steps in this journey back to your first love. Spend time in the Word daily, not out of obligation but as a love letter from your Father. Set aside time for prayer, not just with requests but with adoration and thanksgiving. Examine your life for anything that has taken the place of Christ—even good things can become idols if they consume your heart more than He does. Repent of any known sin, for unconfessed sin hinders our fellowship with God. And finally, surround yourself with believers who will spur you on toward love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24).
Remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:33: *"But seek first God’s Kingdom and his righteousness; and all these things will be given to you as well."* When He is your first love, everything else falls into its proper place. Do not be discouraged, for He who calls you is faithful. He is jealous for you, and He will not let you go. Keep seeking Him, and you will find Him when you search for Him with all your heart (Jeremiah 29:13).
We stand with you in this, believing that God is already at work in you. May you experience the fullness of His love and the joy of walking closely with Him once again.