Numbers of Christians look back on the past with joy but stare at the present with disappointment. They remember days of sweet communion with the Lord as the best they've ever known. But today? Today feels clothed in darkness and dreariness. Once they walked close to Jesus. Now they feel they've wandered far from him, and they cry out, "Oh, if only I could go back to how things were!"

They complain about all that's missing. The assurance they once had—gone. The peace of mind—vanished. The joy in worship—dried up. Their conscience isn't as tender. Their zeal for God's glory has cooled. Everything feels less than it was.

What causes this mournful condition? The reasons are manifold. It might be neglecting prayer—for a neglected prayer closet is the beginning of all spiritual decline. Or perhaps idolatry has crept in. The heart has become occupied with something else more than with God. The affections have settled on earthly things instead of heavenly ones. Mark this: a jealous God will not tolerate a divided heart! He must be loved first and best. He will withdraw the sunshine of his presence from a cold, wandering heart.

Or maybe the problem is self-confidence and self-righteousness. Pride is busy in the heart. Self sits exalted instead of lying low at the foot of the cross.

Christian, if you are not now what you were in months past, don't rest satisfied with wishing for the good old days to return. Go at once to your Master! Tell him your sad state. Ask for his grace and strength to walk more closely with him. Humble yourself before him, and he will lift you up. He will give you again the light of his countenance.

Do not sit down to sigh and lament! While the beloved Physician lives, there is hope—no, there is certainty of recovery for the worst cases.