The spouse who deeply loves her absent husband longs for his return. When separated from him, she feels only half alive. It's the same for those who love the Savior. They need to see His face; they can't bear to be apart. A gentle reprimand or a hint of displeasure is painful to loving children, who find joy only in their Father's smile. Beloved, you once felt this way.

A Scripture verse or a difficult time would send you to God, asking, "Why are You contending with me?" Is that still true for you? Are you content to follow Jesus from a distance? Do you feel at peace with a gap between you and Christ?

Have your sins come between you and God, yet your heart is calm? Let me warn you—it's dangerous to be content without the joy of the Savior's presence. We must recognize how wrong it is to have little love for our Savior, little joy in Jesus, and little fellowship with Him. Hold a true penitence in your soul, grieving over your hard heart.

But don't just sorrow! Remember your first salvation. Go back to the cross. Only there can your spirit be revived.

No matter how hard or unfeeling we've become, let's come back in our brokenness. Let's cling to that cross, look into His kind eyes, and wash in that life-giving blood. This will rekindle our first love. This will restore our faith and tender hearts.