August 31, 2025

THE CALL TO RETURN

Apst. Emmanuel Osezele

KEY TEXT: Revelation 2:4-5 KJV: “Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent…”

THE GREAT CALL: The Lord is calling today those who have left their first love and estate with Christ to return to the old path. In the book of Revelation, Christ admonished the church that, indeed, in their works they had done well — but their heart, which connects them to the work, had departed. This means one can be physically engaged in acts of service while spiritually dead in heart. Revelation 2:1-5

WORK WITH THE RIGHT HEART: Do you know that one can diligently do what appears right in the sight of a pastor or fellow labourer, as hard work and very busy but not right with God? Beware — busyness without the right heart posture before the Lord will utterly be in vain in the end. Matthew 15:8

THE DIVINE PRESCRIPTION: What is the solution? The solution is for one to come to themselves and reflect on how they once loved the Lord — how they joyfully and faithfully served God in worship, in praise, and in prayer. Once this is identified through the help of the Holy Spirit, they must repent, ask for the special grace to retrace their steps and return to that first love again. Psalm 51:12, Revelation 2:1-5

PRAYER:

O Lord, restore unto me the joy of thy salvation, and transform every dead work I have rendered unto You into living works that will make heaven rejoice, in Jesus Christ’s mighty name, Amen.

REFLECTION:

Matthew 15:8–9 KJV: “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; But their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, Teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.”