29/09/2024
*Preacher: Rev. Evans Gitau*
*Topic: Dealing with the Spirit of Backsliding*
*What is Backsliding?*
Backsliding is the act of turning away from the path of righteousness and losing the passion and commitment one initially had toward God. It represents a spiritual decline and the lowering of oneโs standards before God. Backsliding happens when a person begins to prioritize worldly matters over their relationship with God. When you truly love something, you will always find time for it. Backsliding causes a person to become more attracted to the things of this world, neglecting their walk with the Lord.
*The Consistency of Backsliding*
*1. It Causes Backwardness*
Backsliding takes you back from your progress with God. Instead of moving forward, you are trapped in a cycle of decline.
Jeremiah 7:24 - "But they did not listen or pay attention; instead, they followed the stubborn inclinations of their evil hearts. They went backward and not forward."
Jeremiah 30:15 - "Why do you cry out over your wound? Your pain has no cure. Because of your great guilt and many sins, I have done these things to you."
*2. It Brings War*
Backsliding brings internal and external conflicts. It opens doors to spiritual warfare.
*3. It Brings Bitter Experiences*
Just as the Israelites often suffered greatly before turning back to God, backsliding leads to harsh and painful consequences. A life away from God is filled with bitterness and sorrow.
*4. It Brings Rebukes*
God corrects those He loves, and backsliding brings about divine rebuke as a wake-up call to return to Him.
*5. It Brings Faithlessness*
The further one drifts from God, the more they lose their faith and trust in Him. Backsliding causes a person to become doubtful and faithless.
Jeremiah 3:22 - "Return, faithless people; I will cure you of backsliding. 'Yes, we will come to you, for you are the Lord our God.'"
*6. Backsliding Brings War*
Turning away from God leads to confusion, conflict, and division. When Israel strayed from God, war often followed.
Judges 5:8 - "When they chose new gods, war came to the city gates, and not a shield or spear was seen among forty thousand in Israel."
*7. It Causes Stagnation*
Backsliding leads to spiritual stagnation. There is no growth, no development, and no progress in your walk with God.
*8. It Brings Weakness*
Spiritual strength is lost when a person backslides. You lose the power and authority that comes with a strong relationship with God.
*Conclusion:*
Backsliding is dangerous, leading to backwardness, war, bitterness, rebuke, and a loss of faith and strength. But the grace of God is always available to those who turn back to Him. As He calls out in Jeremiah 3:22, "Return, faithless people; I will cure you of backsliding." Stay rooted in Christ, keep your passion for God alive, and guard your relationship with Him diligently.