BACKSLIDING

Hebrews 10:38
KJV:Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.

Often, we find someone who starts off very well in the Christian race and then cools off later. Many times, someone who used to be very hot for the Lord may even leave the Lord completely. When such a thing happens, thoughtful minds always ask, "who will be next to leave the Lord ?" invariably, the answer is, "Not me. " We are all kept by the grace and strength of the Lord. He is able to keep us. However, we must constantly remember the warning of 1 Corinthians 10:12 because if we deliberately refuse his and assistance, we will fall.

What is backsliding?
i. It is turning away from God. 1 kings 11:9
ii. It is growing cold.
iii. It is forsaking one's first love for God. Revelations 2:4
iv. It is losing interest in God and things of God such as studying the Bible, prayer, fellowshipping etc.
v. It is returning to the world.

How does it happen?
i. It begins from the heart (within) and manifests in behavior.
ii. It matures and appears after some time when the damage would have been done.
iii. It happens gradually and unnoticed.

What causes it?

1. Ambition for power. I. e. People who are not contented with their present position and seeking power through diabolical means. Acts 8:19
2. Not living a life of prayer.
3. Covetousness e. g. Lot. Genesis 13:10
4. Love of the world. This kills the love of God the father. Those who want to please men will offend God. 2 Timothy 4:10
5. Love of money I. e. People who love money than God will soon Plunge into evil. John 13:29
6. Not walking 🚶 in the light John 1:7 showing interest in the appearance of darkness.
   All these are causing of backsliding and they are also lot more which are not listing here, all these causing can affect any Christians that backslide in a negative way.

What are the results of backsliding?

• Eternity in hell
• loss of joy and happiness
• failure and defeat.
• loss of peace of mind
• life overshadowed by darkness.

The will of God for backsliders is to return to their original love for Christ. if they return, God will forgive them. Jeremiah 3:22. God will heal them if they return. Hosea 14:4.

Image source-https://the-beacon.me/2014/07/20/causes-of-backsliding-and-its-remedy/

Conclusion
Christians should not dream of backsliding because it is dangerous to do so. However, if it happens inadvertently or otherwise, they should return to God. God is always ready to receive you back home (to his family).

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