A Christian can indeed fail to live in the fullness of God’s grace, and there are several signs described in Scripture that indicate a person may be in a backslidden or derailed state. While someone may still identify as a believer, their life may not align with the way God intends for His followers to live. The Bible warns that it is possible to stray from God’s path, even while still outwardly claiming to be a believer. Here are key signs and characteristics of a backslidden Christian, as well as insights into what may indicate a failure to remain rooted in God’s grace and the vine of Christ.
1. Lack of Righteousness, Peace, and Joy in the Holy Spirit
The ‘Kingdom of God’ is described in Romans 14:17 as ‘righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.’ These three elements are marks of a life aligned with God’s will. When someone fails to experience these qualities, it strongly indicates that something is wrong in their spiritual walk. At the very least, it suggests that they have either not reached the point where they should be or have strayed from the course, making it a focal point for immediate concern and correction.
The ‘Kingdom of God’ and the qualities of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit are central to a Christian’s foundation. These elements reflect the heart of living in alignment with God’s will and are vital aspects of a believer’s spiritual walk. Just as a pilot relies on instruments to control and fly the aircraft, and ignoring them would be disastrous, these spiritual elements must become our indicators. We must continuously monitor them to check our spiritual status and keep ourselves on an even keel, ensuring we remain aligned with God’s will. They demonstrate the transformation that occurs when someone fully embraces God’s kingdom and His presence. If these qualities are missing, it suggests a need for spiritual reflection and growth, in line with the Christian pursuit of becoming more Christlike.
Being deficient in righteousness, peace, and joy can indeed suggest that a person is either off course, derailed, or has failed to fully embrace the grace of God in their lives. In spiritual terms, this could be seen as falling short of God’s intended plan for them, possibly due to sin, distraction, or a lack of spiritual discipline. As Hebrews 12:15 warns, failing to experience God’s grace can lead to bitterness or a lack of spiritual growth. It emphasises the importance of staying rooted in God’s presence and allowing His grace to transform us.
Now you understand why the Holy Spirit is urging us to examine ourselves to see whether we are truly in the faith, as it is written in 2 Corinthians 13:5: “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?” And also, as Jesus said in John 15:4, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine, no more can ye, except ye abide in me.” This highlights the importance of remaining connected to Christ as our source of strength and spiritual vitality—and not swaying, drawing back, or falling away from Him. Our constant dependence on Christ ensures that we stay rooted in His grace and remain steadfast in our spiritual walk.
Entering into His Rest: A Foundational Virtue of the Christian Life
The promise of rest that Jesus offers in Matthew 11:28—“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest”—is a foundational virtue for every believer, alongside righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. This rest is not merely a physical or emotional reprieve but a profound spiritual reality, the rest of God Himself, into which we are invited through faith in Christ. The Psalmist foresaw this rest as a divine inheritance for God’s people, yet Hebrews 4 warns that some failed to enter it due to unbelief. Importantly, this rest, along with righteousness, peace, and joy, does not mean a life free from struggle, sorrow, or tribulation. Jesus Himself declared, “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Though the heart may face tumultuousness and trouble, through the Spirit of God, prayer, and tears, we can realign our hearts to abide in Christ’s rest, righteousness, peace, and joy. These virtues establish the heart, enabling us to stand firm despite life’s trials, for just as Christ overcame the world, so too can we through Him. Many saints through the ages have testified to this truth, such as Horatio Spafford, who, after losing all he held dear, penned the timeless hymn, proclaiming, “When peace like a river attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll, whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul.” As Philippians 4:4-7 exhorts, “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” This divine peace, coupled with joy, guards our hearts in trials. Likewise, 2 Peter 1:2-4 reminds us, “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, according as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” This divine nature empowers us to live in God’s rest, sustained by His grace and peace. Furthermore, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-23 urges us to “rejoice evermore, pray without ceasing, in every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” The enemy seeks to rob us of this rest through unbelief and the stirrings of the flesh, draining these Kingdom virtues from our lives. As believers, we must diligently labour, as Hebrews 4:11 urges, to enter this rest by crucifying the flesh and walking in the Spirit. Being filled with the Spirit is essential to guard our spiritual inheritance, ensuring that we remain steadfast in Christ’s rest, preserving the righteousness, peace, and joy that mark a life aligned with God’s will.
– Righteousness: A failure to live according to God’s standards of holiness is often one of the first signs of a drifting Christian. When a believer lives in unrepentant sin or neglects God’s commands, their heart may begin to harden. Many Christians take their salvation for granted, thinking that justification is solely by faith and that works hold no weight. While it is true that the righteousness of Christ is imputed to us for the purpose of initiation and justification, this is not the end of the story. There is also a righteousness that becomes assimilated or naturalised in us through our obedience to the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus (Romans 6:16).
Before the redemptive work on the cross of Calvary, no law could ascribe righteousness, and the blood of bulls and goats could never redeem the spirits of men. However, the blood of Jesus Christ is unlike any other. It has the power to wash away all the stains of sin. It can penetrate deep into the conscience, purging all defilements and transforming even the grossest sinner into a saint of God. After being grafted into the true Vine, our works should reflect this transformation. In that way, our actions speak volumes. A tree is known by its fruit, right? A fruitless tree is destined for burning.
Yes, Jesus did cleanse us from our sins, but which sins? He cleansed us from PAST sins and the condemnation inherited from Adam—those we committed in ignorance while being slaves to sin. “His righteousness for the remission of sins that are” ‘past’”—Romans 3:25. What about the sins we commit after coming to Christ? Yes, for those too, we have an advocate who allows us to approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and find grace. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive and cleanse us. As we walk in the light, just as He is in the light, the blood of Christ will continually cleanse us. But we bear the consequences ourselves if we do not comply with these.
There’s a verse that’s often misquoted, saying that if we sin wilfully, there is no more remission of sin. However, this verse is not referring to the sins that a Christian may still commit, as we all possess a fallen nature, which we must put off, and the Bible itself says that if we claim to have no sin, we deceive ourselves. If we can’t sin, then why would we need to live according to the Spirit and make confessions and supplications for grace and mercy? The verse in question refers to those who intentionally reject the sacrifice of Christ—those who were once enlightened, who tasted the heavenly gift, shared in the Holy Spirit, experienced the goodness of God’s word, and witnessed the powers of the world to come. If they fall away, it is impossible to renew them to repentance because they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and openly shaming Him (Hebrews 6:4-6). Hebrews 10:28–30 emphasises that if someone rejects God’s grace, they are deserving of even greater punishment than those who despised the law of Moses because they have trampled on the Son of God, treating His sacrifice as unholy, and insulted the Spirit of grace. This is that sin unto death, which the Bible talks about (1 John 5:16).
Hebrews 6:4-6 and Hebrews 10:28-30 are addressing a wilful rejection of Christ’s sacrifice, not the ongoing struggles or sins that Christians may still face as they live in the flesh.
Don’t believe that your heart is completely purified and free from sinful tendencies the moment you are born again; do not deceive yourself into thinking this.
– “Peace”: The inner peace that comes from the Holy Spirit is essential for a right relationship with God. Without peace, a Christian may experience anxiety, fear, or inner turmoil, which signals a disconnect from God’s presence. This peace is not the fleeting peace the world offers but the very peace of Christ Himself—shalom. Shalom is not merely peace in the heart; the ancient Hebrew understanding means “to destroy the one who created chaos.” Wouldn’t that imply that, despite our struggles in life, we must have the assurance that Christ Jesus has already defeated the enemy of our souls? Hebrews 2:14; Colossians 2:15
In other words, shalom refers to much more than just peace or tranquillity—it signifies wholeness, restoration, and the defeat of chaos or disorder. It’s the kind of peace that comes from the victory Christ has already won over sin, fear, and the enemy. So, even in the midst of life’s struggles, a believer can experience deep, lasting peace, knowing that Christ has already overcome the forces that would seek to disrupt our spiritual well-being. As a crown to it all, the peace of Christ Himself will reign in our hearts.
Listen to what Romans 2:6-10 (AMP) says: God will pay back to each person according to his deeds [justly, as his deeds deserve]: to those who, by persistence in doing good, seek [unseen but certain heavenly] glory, honour, and immortality, [He will give the gift of] eternal life. But for those who are selfishly ambitious and self-seeking and disobedient to the truth but responsive to wickedness, [there will be] wrath and indignation. There will be tribulation and anguish [torturing confinement] for every human soul who does [or permits] evil, to the Jew first and also to the Greek, but glory and honour and inner peace [will be given] to everyone who habitually does good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
So, if we lack inner peace, we now understand where the problem originates!
- 1 Corinthians 3:3 says, For ye are yet carnal; for whereas there is among you envying, strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal and walk as men?
- James 3:14-18 says, If ye have bitter envy and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descends not from above but is earthly, sensual, and devilish. Where envy and strife are, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.
This is a chaotic situation—one that has arisen because souls have not been embraced by the shalom of God. It is the kind of wisdom one comes to possess that ultimately determines the outcome.
You can’t simply possess this wisdom, nor can you access it through education or mere knowledge, nor is it a spiritual gift in the traditional sense, nor is it automatically imputed to us when we come to Christ. If it were, there would be no need to instruct us to acquire it in the first place. While the Bible says, ‘If any lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives liberally’ (James 1:5), the way you receive it and the nature of this wisdom is not what we often think it is. It’s not merely about gaining knowledge or understanding through study or gifting. This wisdom comes through a process of spiritual transformation, requiring purging, sanctification, and growth. It’s not about intellectual achievement but about a profound change in your inner character as you absorb God’s divine nature and live out His will.
To simply put, Wisdom is a person of the Godhead—1 Corinthians 1:24, and being aligned with His person is what it’s all about. That alignment requires the scraping away of our own selves by the Spirit and the Word, doesn’t it? Do you see the process one must go through to reach Him on that level?
You could say this is a hard road to life, and yes, it is. But it’s not a life that we accomplish through our own effort; rather, it’s about letting Christ live within us, making what seems impossible a reality. Our duty is to prepare the way for the Lord in our hearts through the Spirit and the Word. It is God who works in us, giving us the will and the ability to do His good pleasure, not the other way around. Is there anything too hard for the Lord?
As Jesus said, “The Son can do nothing on His own; He only does what He sees the Father doing” (John 5:19). Similarly, just as He was in the world, we too are completely dependent on the Father and His Spirit, as it is written, “As He is, so are we in this world” (1 John 4:17).
I can assure you that you’ve probably been trying to live your Christian life on your own up until now, haven’t you? And now, my message comes as a surprise, doesn’t it?
Did God ever ask you to live the Christian life on your own? Why do we assume that we must live out the Christian life when, as humans, we can’t possibly meet the standards that Jesus set? The Pharisees believed that breaking any law was a transgression, but Jesus took it a step further, saying that even lusting in the heart is equivalent to committing adultery, and hatred is like murder. So, how can we ever measure up to that level of righteousness, especially when we are saved by grace? Why do you think the Holy Spirit was poured out on humanity at Pentecost if God expected us to do it all on our own? Why would Christ need to live through us if we are in control? The sad truth is, many Christians try to live the life themselves, relying more on human effort than on the work of God within them.
Many call Jesus “Lord, Lord,” but in reality, they are their own lord. They may acknowledge Him with their words, but their lives are still driven by their own desires, control, and decisions. It’s easy to claim Him as Lord with our mouths, but true lordship means surrendering our will to His and allowing Him to lead us, not the other way around.
A sheep can’t shepherd itself—it needs the guidance, protection, and care of the shepherd. Similarly, as believers, we can’t navigate life on our own strength or wisdom. Without the Good Shepherd, Jesus, we’re lost and vulnerable. Just as a sheep relies fully on its shepherd for direction and safety, we too are called to rely on Christ to lead us, nourish us, and protect us. Trying to shepherd ourselves is like a sheep wandering without purpose—it needs the guidance of the shepherd to thrive.
“Joy”: “Joy in the Lord” is the joy we experience in response to knowing God and walking closely with Him—Galatians 4:9; 1 John 4:6, 7, 16. It arises from a deep connection with God, His love, and His work in our lives. This joy is both an emotional and spiritual response to God’s goodness, guidance, and presence. The Spirit of God makes God’s presence tangible, imparting all the heavenly experiences to the soul that has been regenerated or quickened by Him. Joy in the Lord is rooted in Christ in us, the hope of glory. It’s His light shining in the dark places of our hearts, illuminating us from within. As the Day Star rises in our hearts, His presence brings the joy that transcends circumstances, filling us with peace and strength. It doesn’t come through religious practices or rites but through being born of God. It is the inheritance of a child of God. As Jesus said, one must be born again to inherit the kingdom of God, which is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. This joy is a fruit of the new birth, made possible through the work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. It is the liberation of the soul from the grasp of the enemy that brings about this joy.
On the other hand, “the joy of the Lord” refers to the joy that God Himself possesses and provides, and that’s what gives strength to the soul. It is a divine joy that sustains and strengthens us, even in difficult times. As Nehemiah 8:10 says, “The joy of the Lord is your strength,” meaning that this joy, rooted in God’s own nature, empowers and upholds us through life’s challenges. The joy of the Lord is the joy of the Lord Himself.
Psalm 16:11 tells us, “In Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore.” And this is where Christ is seated—at the right hand of God, the place of ultimate honour and authority—Romans 8:34; Hebrews 12:2. This position signifies not only His divine status but also the eternal joy and peace that flow from God’s presence. For in Christ dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily—Colossians 1:19; 2:9. The pleasure and joy that come from being in Christ’s presence are immense and immeasurable, like a reservoir that will never deplete. No matter how much we partake in it, there is always more to experience. It is a never-ending well of love, grace, and fulfilment, reserved for all who are in Christ. This truth invites us to rest in the unshakeable joy that Christ offers, knowing that the depths of His goodness are limitless, and His joy will sustain us forever. This joy is not merely a fleeting emotion; it is the joy that comes from being in the presence of God, where true fulfilment and lasting joy are found.
It’s the assurance of Christ in us—the hope of His presence and His promises—that fuels our joy. It’s not about what we can do on our own, but about the confidence that, through Him, we have everything we need. That hope, knowing He is with us and working in us, ignites a joy that doesn’t depend on circumstances. It’s a deep, unwavering joy that comes from knowing we’re not alone and that He’s fulfilling His purpose in us every day.
Just as Jesus said, ‘My peace I give unto you’ (John 14:27), the joy of the Lord is not simply a human emotion, but a divine joy that flows from His presence, His nature, and His work in our lives. This joy is not based on circumstances but on a deep connection to God and the transformation He brings through the Holy Spirit.
Both forms of joy are essential for the Christian walk. Joy in the Lord comes with the saving of the soul or when the Spirit of God quickens a person. It is the effect of God’s redemptive work in the soul of man, as Scripture says, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation” (Psalm 51:12). This joy is the result of being made spiritually alive through salvation and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The joy of the Lord, however, comes later as the person continues with the Lord, matures spiritually, and is sanctified wholly. As believers grow in their faith, they experience a deeper, sustaining joy that strengthens them through trials, as Nehemiah 8:10 says, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” This joy becomes a powerful force that empowers and sustains the believer, no matter the circumstances.
A Christian who has lost their joy or isn’t experiencing joy in their heart is likely not abiding in Christ and is missing out on the fullness of life He offers. When we speak of the joy of the Lord, it refers to a deeper, enduring state of joy that comes from a relationship with God. It is not simply a fleeting emotion based on circumstances but a deep sense of peace, fulfilment, and strength that arises from being connected to God’s presence and His promises.
This joy can exist even in difficult or challenging times because it is rooted in trust, faith, and God’s character rather than external circumstances. As the Bible says in Nehemiah 8:10, “The joy of the Lord is your strength,” showing that this kind of joy can sustain and empower us through life’s trials. Therefore, the joy of the Lord is not merely a momentary feeling of gladness, which is often triggered by positive events or external circumstances. Instead, it is a profound, inner joy that transcends temporary happiness.
The joy of the Lord is not a one-time gift given at the moment of new birth but rather something that comes through continual fellowship with the Lord Jesus Christ. It is indeed a progressive acquisition, not something automatically given or fully experienced right away. The joy of the Lord is deeply tied to ongoing intimacy and connection with Christ. As believers walk with Him, spend time in His Word, pray, and live in obedience, they grow in experiencing His joy. It is nurtured and strengthened through this relationship, much like any other aspect of spiritual growth.
The joy of the Lord is nurtured over time through a deepening relationship with Christ. The Psalmist expresses in Psalm 1:2 that ‘his delight is in the law of the Lord,’ indicating that there is a deep love and joy found in God’s Word. You cannot truly profess to delight in the Lord if you do not find His Word delightful, because the Word is God Himself (John 1:1). This is reflected in the experience of the prophet in Ezekiel 3:3, who says that when he ate the Word, it was as sweet as honey. The law, or Word of God, is not just a set of rules but a source of life, peace, and joy. This joy, rooted in the Word, comes from meditating on it, following its guidance, and experiencing the fellowship it brings with God. As we grow in understanding God’s truth and align our lives with His will, we experience His joy more fully.
The more we delight in God’s Word, the more we receive His joy because we are brought closer to His heart and purpose for our lives. As the Psalmist said, “His delight is in the law of the Lord,” and in the same way, the Word of God imparts the joy of the Lord to those who meditate on it and follow its guidance. This connection between joy and the Word highlights the importance of staying rooted in Scripture as we seek to experience the fullness of joy in Christ.
2. Decreased Desire for God’s Word and Prayer
In John 15, Jesus refers to Himself as the ‘true vine’ and His followers as the branches. He says, ‘If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit’ (John 15:5). In verse 7, He adds, ‘If you remain in me, and my words remain in you.’ To remain in the vine means staying in constant communion with Christ through prayer, Bible study, and worship. It is about being transformed by the renewal of our minds and living according to the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus.
When a Christian neglects these spiritual disciplines, it could be a sign of a heart that is leaning away from God—ultimately resulting in spiritual apathy, diminished zeal, or a loss of spiritual fervour, which becomes entrenched in the heart—a spiritual condition nurtured by the dark world through the avenue of the flesh. This lack of desire to engage in prayer, study of the Word, worship, and fellowship may reveal an inner complacency or a disconnection from the life-giving source of faith. This gradual erosion of passion for the things of God often reflects the subtle influence of worldly distractions, temptations, and spiritual complacency, which can lead the believer further away from the life-giving relationship with Christ. This lack of desire to engage in prayer, study of the Word, worship, and fellowship may reveal an inner complacency or a disconnection from the life-giving source of faith. Over time, such neglect can lead to spiritual dryness, reduced sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, and an inability to discern God’s will. This decline often mirrors a deeper, internal struggle that must be addressed through repentance, renewal, and a reawakening to the power and joy of living in communion with God.
The Christian life is like a tightrope walk, with a narrow margin of error—one step away from the Lord can lead to disastrous consequences. However, the Lord will preserve His saints whose hearts remain true to Him, while those who intentionally stray, despite many admonitions from the Lord—as He warned Solomon in 1 Kings 11:4-10—will fall away to perdition. Solomon’s heart turned after other gods despite God’s repeated admonitions, and his failure to heed God’s commands resulted in the Lord’s anger and judgement.
As a Christian is transplanted into a new life in Christ, becoming a new creation, the culture of God’s Kingdom should replace everything he has absorbed throughout his life since birth. Without a transformation of the heart and life, Christianity would simply become a religion—and that is not enough.
The Christian life is not merely about adopting a new set of beliefs or practices; it is not just about attending church and singing songs. It is about a profound transformation of the heart and life, becoming like Jesus on the inside. This change goes beyond external actions, shaping one’s identity, values, and worldview to reflect the culture of God’s Kingdom. It is about a personal relationship with Christ and a new way of living that mirrors His teachings and character. If this inner transformation doesn’t occur, faith can become nothing more than a set of rituals or rules, lacking the true power and life-changing impact that Christianity is meant to bring.
– Neglect of Scripture: A backslidden Christian may begin to neglect the Bible, treating it as less of a priority. Their focus is on the world—on their own lives, their children, their ambitions, and passions in life—their life in this world. The cares of life, the deceitfulness of riches, the pleasures of this world, and the love of other things enter their hearts, gradually replacing their first love, which is Christ. As a result, they become fruitless, unable to bring any fruit to perfection—Luke 8:14.
Jesus made it clear that if we love anything more than Him, we’re not truly worthy of Him (Matthew 10:37). When our hearts are consumed with the things of this world—whether it’s our desires, possessions, or relationships—it becomes difficult to fully surrender to Christ. Our love for Him must take precedence over everything else, or else we risk becoming distracted and unfruitful. True devotion to Christ means prioritizing Him above all else, recognizing that nothing else can satisfy or fulfil us the way He can.
When Jesus says someone is “not worthy of Me,” He’s pointing to a deeper commitment. It means that if we prioritize anything over Him—whether it’s relationships, possessions, or even our own ambitions—we’re not fully embracing Him as Lord of our lives. To be “worthy” of Him means to give Him our first love, our full devotion, and to place Him above all else. It’s not that He won’t be in our lives, but rather that we won’t be truly following Him if He isn’t the ultimate priority—and if He isn’t the ultimate priority, He won’t be their Lord. This is whom the Lord was speaking of when He said, ‘They worship Me in vain’ (Matthew 15:9), because their hearts are far from Him. If our hearts are divided, then we’re not reflecting the kind of wholehearted commitment that He desires. This is what the Bible calls a double-minded person, and such a person cannot receive anything from the Lord (James 1:8).
The Greek word used for “double-minded” in James 1:8 is “dipsychos” (δίψυχος—DEE-psoo-khos), which is a compound word derived from “di-” (meaning “two”) and “psychē” (meaning “soul” or “mind”). The word “dipsychos” literally means “two-souled” or “double-souled,” indicating someone whose mind or heart is divided or torn between two different directions. It describes a person who is wavering between conflicting desires or allegiances, making them unstable and indecisive. This instability affects their relationship with God, as they cannot fully commit to Him while still holding onto the world.
In the context of James 1:8, this double-mindedness reflects a lack of wholehearted devotion to God, making it difficult to receive guidance or blessings from Him. It’s like trying to serve two masters—God and the world—at the same time, which leads to confusion and spiritual weakness.
In short, a divided heart or mind results in spiritual instability and an inability to receive from God.
Some see Christ as their marriage broker, someone who will help them find their partner, help their business grow, or one who will help them settle in life and prosper. That’s why they come to Christ—when they face troubles in life and need answers for the challenges of this world. But their original intention is not about being saved from the burden of sin and becoming a child of God. Once, when I asked the Lord to help many Christians struggling to find partners and experiencing loneliness, I was shocked to hear Him say, ‘I am not their marriage broker. I attend to those who are diligent and devoted in their hearts to Me.
I’ve come to understand that, in a way, He was conveying to me that these were professing Christians whose hearts were not aligned with His Spirit. And yes, it was true. As I had closer associations with some, I could clearly see how spiritually barren they were and how worldly their minds were set. What shocked me even more was the kind of performance and worship they put up on Sundays, which seemed completely disconnected from true spiritual devotion. On the outside, they appeared to be Christians, and some were even ministers of God, but on the inside, there was rottenness and corruption. It terrifies me to even think of living such a life, knowing all too well where the Lord has saved me from and how vulnerable I am without being close to His heart.
A healthy fear of God is what is missing in much of Christendom today. This lack of reverence is reflected in the Scriptures, where we are reminded of God’s severity and goodness. As Romans 11:21-22 warns, ‘For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest He also spare not thee. Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in His goodness; otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.’ In Hebrews 2:3, we are asked, ‘How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?’ The writer of Hebrews continues to emphasize the need for godly fear, saying, ‘Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: for our God is a consuming fire’ (Hebrews 12:28-29). Moreover, Philippians 2:12 calls us to ‘work out your own salvation with fear and trembling,’ highlighting the serious, reverent attitude with which we must approach our salvation. These verses show us that a true fear of God is essential for our walk of faith, and without it, we risk losing sight of His holiness and the seriousness of our salvation. We cannot afford to take things for granted, as the stakes are far too high.
I am not saying that the Lord doesn’t care for His own; on the contrary, He deeply cares for His beloved. As a father pities his children, so the Lord pities those who love Him (Psalm 103:13). However, those He has disowned are superficial Christians who have not fully surrendered their lives to Him. They hold onto their passions and ambitions in the world—the pride of life, which is not from the Father but from the world (1 John 2:16). This pride, too, is their driving motive, as they seek to gain leverage in the world rather than live for God’s Kingdom.
The Greek word used in Matthew 10:37 when Jesus says, “He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me,” is “axios” (ἄξιος). Axios means “worthy,” “deserving,” or “having the proper value or weight.” In this context, it implies that someone who loves something more than Jesus is not properly aligned with the value or priority He should hold in their life. They are not living in a way that reflects His supreme worth.
So, when Jesus says we are “not worthy of Him,” it means we’re not giving Him the rightful place of priority and honour that reflects His true value. It’s about our relationship with Him not being in the right balance, not just about His availability to us, but more about us not fully living up to the devotion that should be given to Him.
If you say someone is “not worthy of me,” it implies that you are choosing not to be available to them or not giving them your time or attention because they haven’t shown the right level of respect or devotion. In the same way, when Jesus says someone is “not worthy of Me,” He’s essentially saying that if our hearts are divided or we place other things above Him, we are not in the right position to truly receive or experience the fullness of a relationship with Him. It’s not that He won’t be present in our lives, but rather that He will not have the rightful place of honour and priority in our hearts, which means we can’t fully experience the depth of that relationship.
He’s also indicating that He won’t be available to us in the way we might expect, because we haven’t truly prioritized Him above all else. It’s about the depth of commitment and the kind of relationship He desires with us. If we don’t put Him first, we’re not in a place to experience all that He offers. In essence, Jesus is saying that a genuine relationship with Him requires wholehearted devotion, and without it, we can’t fully engage with Him the way we’re meant to.
John 14:23, where Jesus says, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.” This verse directly supports the idea that Jesus is looking for a personal, intimate relationship with those who are wholeheartedly devoted to Him. It emphasizes that those who prioritize Him above all else—those who love and obey His teachings—will experience His presence in a deep and personal way.
“We will come to him”—In this context, Jesus is pointing to a specific person: someone whose heart is fully aligned with His will. This is the kind of person with whom Jesus and the Father will make their “abode.” The key here is that it’s not about mere acknowledgement or casual faith; it’s about a deep commitment and surrender, which makes space for God to dwell fully in their lives.
The Word of God is where His voice is heard, and His instructions are found, so this neglect can lead to spiritual dryness. A soldier would never go into battle without his sword; it’s both his weapon and his means of defence. Similarly, as Christians, we are called to “take the helmet of salvation” and “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Ephesians 6:17). The helmet of salvation guards our minds and keeps us grounded in the security of Christ, while the sword—the Word—empowers us to stand firm against the enemy’s attacks. Without these, we’re vulnerable. A soldier who is unarmed is easy prey for the enemy, and the same applies to a believer who neglects the power and protection found in God’s Word. We can’t face the world and its challenges without fully relying on the armour God provides.
– Prayerlessness: If prayer becomes more mechanical or is neglected altogether, it indicates a loss of intimacy with God. Prayer is meant to be relational, not simply a duty. Praying always, as Ephesians 6:18 tells us, is how a true Christian is strengthened and built up from within. It’s more than just asking for things; it’s about maintaining an ongoing, intimate connection with God—the kind of relationship that transforms us. It is being aligned with God on the inside. Prayer is a spiritual stance of being attuned to the Lord Jesus Christ. Prayer is about bringing everything to the Lord—both the good and the bad—laying it all before Him with openness and vulnerability. Though He knows us inside and out, He desires our confession and expects it. It’s not just about knowing Him, but about Him wanting to know you and to help you know yourself more deeply in His presence. Through prayer, we discover solutions to our struggles by exposing the hidden, dark elements within us that harass, torment, and seek to destroy. Prayer is like a constant link, a two-way communication line with the Father. As we pray, we pour out our hearts, thoughts, struggles, desires, and needs while also receiving His guidance, peace, and strength. It’s this ongoing exchange that shapes us into the people He’s called us to be, helping us persevere in faith and stand firm in His will. Without constant communion, we become disconnected. But when we pray continually, we remain rooted and aligned with His purpose. And the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, as Philippians 4:7 says: ‘And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.’ Praying in the Holy Spirit also builds our faith, as Jude 1:20 says: ‘But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost.
Prayer isn’t just about transmitting our personal thoughts and feelings—it’s also about bringing the situations we face into God’s presence. It’s recognizing that we are not only praying for ourselves but for the world around us, for the challenges we encounter, and for others who are struggling. We bring the reality of the “situation on the ground” to God, knowing that He is fully aware of it and is working in every circumstance. Through prayer, we align ourselves with His will, seeking His guidance, intervention, and strength to navigate the struggles of life. It’s an act of surrender, allowing God to work in us and through us, transforming both our hearts and the situations around us.
A Christian can indeed work as an ombudsman, gathering the information around them and bringing it to God in prayer. Just as an ombudsman collects and reports crucial details to ensure proper action, a Christian observes the world, situations, and the needs of others, then brings those concerns to the “central command”—God. In doing so, the believer doesn’t just passively observe but actively participates in God’s work by lifting up what’s happening around them. The Lord gathers insights about His church through such vessels. I have witnessed God responding with great impact after receiving such reports from His faithful people. I speak with such assurance, for it was the Lord Himself who taught this to me. It was God who did great things among His people, but it was the effect of the prayers of His faithful saints that compelled Him to come down and do things that would not normally take place.
At times, prayer may feel like we are confronted with an enormous, impenetrable bronze door, closed before us, with no certainty of it ever being opened or any understanding of what lies beyond it. Yet, in those moments, we sense a quiet prompting from the Spirit of God, urging us to persist, to not lose heart, or to withdraw. Instead, we are called to continue knocking in faith, believing that even in uncertainty, God is working through our perseverance.
It’s so true how prayer can feel like an uphill battle, especially when the answers seem distant or unclear. But there’s a deep prompting in the Spirit to keep pushing forward. It’s almost like a test of faith and perseverance, where we’re called to trust in God’s timing and wisdom, even when the situation feels like a closed door.
That constant knocking can be exhausting, but there’s something so profound in the act of staying persistent, even when everything around us feels uncertain. It’s a reminder that prayer isn’t just about receiving answers—it’s about deepening that relationship and learning to trust in the process, whatever the outcome may be. And you would find that when you press on in those moments, there’s a peace that comes with it?
At the time of this writing, the author is personally experiencing this very scenario, and it is from this place of firsthand struggle and reflection that these words are shared. And let it not be assumed that these words are simply the work of a skilled wordsmith; rather, they are the product of a life lived, deeply etched into the fabric of this writing. This is my own life I am sharing with you, not just words on a page, but a personal journey laid bare.
The prayer closet is the sacred space where you experience intimate fellowship with the Lord Jesus Christ, a place where personal communion with Him unfolds.
When we pray, we offer our observations—our concerns, struggles, and the needs of others—into God’s hands. These observations, made in the light of His truth and guidance, are taken as valuable evidence for His action. They aren’t just idle words; they carry weight and authority, as we are co-labourers with Christ in His mission to restore and heal. Our prayers and petitions become the channels through which God can move in the world, with our faithful reporting providing Him the space to act. Through this process, we engage with God’s purposes and align ourselves with His will in a way that brings both transformation to our hearts and change to the world around us.
3. Growing Worldliness and Attachment to Sin
The Bible consistently warns against loving the world or its desires (1 John 2:15-17). When a Christian begins to prioritize worldly pleasures, material success, personal ambitions, or sinful habits over their relationship with Christ, it signals a move away from a true Christian walk.
The relationship with Christ is not what many might assume it to be, merely a casual connection. It is unlike any other relationship—it requires a transformation of our nature and obedience to His Word. Without this alignment, deep fellowship with Him becomes impossible. Not to mention, it creates an environment where the spirit man gets choked, and it is through the inner persona that is born of God that the Lord reigns in us. When we fail to put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness, we remain hindered in our spiritual growth. You could only imagine the state of being unable to fully embrace the transformation that Christ offers, leaving us spiritually stunted and disconnected. It is only through the renewal of the mind and the putting on of the new man that we can truly live in the fullness of God’s purpose for us.
Our flesh, at enmity with Christ, prevents us from experiencing His presence as deeply as we desire. It’s not that He doesn’t love us—His love is the very reason He saved us in the first place. However, as James 4:4 points out, a person who loves the world is considered an enemy of God and a spiritual adulterer. Unless we conform to His standard of living, He cannot provide us with what we are truly deficient in. So be ye transformed by the renewal of your mind—Romans 12:2.
Please get this: While salvation through faith in Jesus Christ is a gift that cannot be earned (Ephesians 2:8-9), many aspects of the Christian life are conditional upon our response, obedience, and alignment with God’s will.
The good news is, you don’t have to do it alone. God provides the grace and power to accomplish everything. As 2 Peter 1:2 says, “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.” Can grace and peace be multiplied unto us in any other way? The key to receiving them is through knowing God and His Son.
In 1 Thessalonians 5:19-23, we are reminded that God sanctifies us wholly—spirit, soul, and body—preserving us blameless by His power until the return of Christ. And the peace of God is the effect of compliance, flowing naturally from our obedience and alignment with His will. Can we accomplish this in any other way? These are only two examples of how God provides grace, peace, and sanctification, all conditional upon our response, obedience, and alignment with His will.
Just as in any system, where membership and participation are conditional upon adherence to its doctrines and rules, the Kingdom of Christ also has its own principles and dogma, which the devotee must adhere to. Without such adherence, the devotion is not considered valid, as it is through our response, obedience, and alignment with God’s will that we experience the fullness of His grace, peace, and sanctification.
That doesn’t mean, however, that you need to be perfect to come to Christ; rather, it means coming as you are, acknowledging your need for Him. Let me be clear about this: It has nothing to do with the initiation into Christ, which is a drawing by God to Christ, but the life that follows requires some reconstruction as we align ourselves with His will and grow in obedience. Because we have built lofty things in our minds, and our souls have absorbed the filth and errors of the world, these must be torn down. Every high and exalted thought must be brought into the obedience of Christ, dismantling the false foundations we’ve built and allowing God’s truth to rebuild us from within.
So, this coming is not without transformation—because it is an entrance into the life that God, through Jesus Christ, has led you into by His Spirit. It is a divine passage that ushers you from death into life, where your mind, heart, and soul are renewed, and you are shaped into the image of Christ. It is a new and living way that Christ opened for us to come in, a way of life that is transformative and vibrant. This is not a mere play of religion, as we see around us—empty practices and rituals that lack power and substance. Christ’s way is a life-giving path, where His Spirit leads us into genuine transformation, empowering us to live out His will with purpose and strength.
Whether you deem this true or not, the fact remains that, although it is by grace that we are saved, it was our adherence to a specific form of doctrine that made this initiation into Christ possible. As Romans 6:17 says, ‘But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.’ And verse 16 emphasizes obedience unto righteousness. It is through the quickening of the Holy Spirit that we are empowered to adhere to this doctrine of Christ, aligning our hearts with His truth and entering into the new life He offers. Now, we know that all is conditional—salvation, transformation, and the fullness of the Christian life are all dependent on our response, obedience, and alignment with His will. Yet, this empowerment to respond is itself a gift of grace, the divine strength God provides to live according to His will. For it is God which works in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure—Philippians 2:13. Isn’t this powerful and beautiful?
This transformation begins the moment you respond to His call and continues as you align yourself with His will, growing in grace and truth. It requires a willingness not only to transition from your broken, fallen world into His but also to shed your fallen culture and corrupt nature, embracing His holiness and righteousness. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 tells us, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature: The old has gone, the new is here!” This process is about a radical shift—leaving behind what is destructive and stepping into the fullness of His life and character.
The phrase “New creature” (ἄνθρωπος καινὴ κτίσις, anthrōpos kainē ktisis) literally means “new creation” or “new creation of a person,” signifying the revival of a dead spirit and a transformation in nature, identity, or being through Christ. As 1 Corinthians 15:48-49 states, “As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly.” This transformation involves moving from the earthly nature—defined by sin and death—to a new, heavenly nature, defined by life and righteousness in Christ. It can be thought of as a kind of hypostatic union, where the person, once earthly, becomes both divine and human, participating in the divine nature through the power of Christ’s resurrection.
– Love of the World: A derailed Christian may become consumed with the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (1 John 2:16). Their pursuit of wealth, status, or sensual pleasures may overshadow their passion for godly things.
– Recurrent Sin: Sin (inherent or indwelling sinful disposition) may no longer be seen as serious, and a believer may justify pride, anger, bitterness of heart, unforgiveness, lust, or other recurring sins. This reflects a failure to walk in holiness and repentance.
4. Unfruitfulness in Life
In John 15, Jesus teaches the importance of abiding in Him to bear much fruit. He explains that those who remain connected to Him, the true vine, will produce abundant fruit, while those who do not bear fruit are cut off. The Greek word used for “cut off” in this passage is “αἴρω” (airō), which means “to take up, lift, or remove.” In this context, it signifies the removal or separation of branches that do not produce fruit. This serves as a stark reminder of the necessity of staying connected to Christ, as failure to do so leads to spiritual disconnection, highlighting the critical importance of remaining in Him to experience the fullness of life and fruitfulness. Similarly, in Romans 11, Paul speaks of genuine branches being cut off to warn us of the consequences of unbelief and disobedience. This principle is also evident in the history of Israel, as God brought His people out of Egypt, but many were destroyed in the wilderness due to their lack of faith and disobedience (1 Corinthians 10:5). This further emphasizes the importance of not just beginning the journey with God but remaining faithful to Him throughout, as those who fall away or refuse to obey face serious consequences. Therefore, the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) should be evident in the life of every Christian. This includes qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
– A lack of spiritual fruit can be a clear sign of disconnection from Christ. If a Christian is not exhibiting the fruits of the Spirit, their life may be marked by selfishness, bitterness, or frustration, indicating that they are not abiding in Him. It could also reflect spiritual immaturity, as Paul addressed the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 3:1-3, where he noted their inability to digest deeper spiritual truths because they were still “babes” in Christ. Paul went on to say that they were still acting in worldly ways, full of jealousy and strife, because they were unskilled in the word of righteousness. Similarly, James 3 warns that embracing wisdom, which is “earthly, sensual, and devilish,” gives rise to bitter envying and strife in the heart (James 3:14-16). Such wisdom, which is rooted in the flesh and not in the Spirit, leads to disorder and division, further emphasizing the need for spiritual maturity and alignment with God’s wisdom. Just as a tree that doesn’t bear fruit is unhealthy, so too, a believer who is not growing in maturity and fruitfulness is a sign that they are not fully connected to the life and power of Christ.
That being said, God doesn’t expect you to bear fruit immediately, as growth is not spontaneous—it takes time. Just as a farmer patiently waits for his crops to mature—weeding, nurturing, and nourishing them—so too does God work in us over time. The point here is that, regardless of our current state—whether immature or still growing—we are rooted and planted in Christ. Our foundation is secure in Him, and even in our immaturity, God is at work in us, patiently bringing about transformation. Just as the farmer trusts the process, we must trust that, though it takes time, the fruit will come as we remain in Him. But what we should be diligent about is not being derailed from the track by allowing the flesh or the corrupt self to dominate, thus choking the life of the Spirit.
– A failure to evangelize or serve can also reflect a deeper issue of disconnection from Christ. Bearing fruit includes not only sharing the gospel but also serving others in love and using the gifts God has provided. This does not mean that one must be an evangelist by specific calling, but rather that every believer, according to the gift the Spirit has furnished them with, is called to contribute to the body of Christ. If a Christian is no longer actively engaged in serving or sharing the gospel in whatever capacity their gifts allow, it may be an indication that they are disconnected from the true vine. When we are connected to Christ, His love compels us to serve others, and our actions become an outflow of the life He has given us.
5. Hardness of Heart and Dullness of Spirit
A backslidden Christian may experience a gradual hardening of their heart and diminishing spiritual sensitivity. Hebrews 3:12-13 warns against having a “hardened heart through the deceitfulness of sin.” When a Christian compromises little by little, over time they may become spiritually numb.
– Unwillingness to Repent: A backslidden Christian may no longer feel convicted by sin or may refuse to confess and repent. This shows a hardened heart and a loss of spiritual sensitivity. I have come across many Christians who show no remorse for things like lying, harbouring hatred, or holding grudges, even though the Bible tells us that these actions defile us. What shocks me is that they will still rush into church, worship, pray, and do things they deem righteous, all while thinking they are on good terms with God. How can they be like this if not for the fact that their conscience is seared? The Bible warns us that when we persist in sin without repentance, our hearts become calloused, and we lose the ability to feel the weight of our actions. This is a dangerous place to be, as it leads to a disconnect from God and the life He desires for us.
And many times, when I tried to instill truth in them and warn them, I felt their intense displeasure towards me. I would often withdraw, having received blows of hatred, with some making me feel as if I were no longer one of them. Some even went so far as to call me false and sick in mind. It was painful to experience, but it only highlighted how deeply hardened their hearts had become, unable to hear the truth and respond to the conviction of the Holy Spirit.
– Spiritual Laziness: A person who once had a vibrant relationship with God may become lethargic in their spiritual life, with little to no desire to worship, pray, or serve. This may be the result of a malnourished spirit, lacking the spiritual “sap” that comes from consistent fellowship with God. Just as a tree that is deprived of water and nourishment becomes dry and withered, so too does the soul that neglects to feed on the Word of God and neglects prayer and worship. Without the lifeblood of God’s presence and His word, spiritual lethargy sets in, and the desire to grow and serve diminishes.
The book of Proverbs speaks of slothfulness, where a lazy person refuses to sow, and instead, lets thorns and thistles overtake the field they should have cultivated. When they come looking for fruit, they find none. Similarly, the New Testament reminds us in Galatians 6:7-8, “God is not mocked; whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. He that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.” If we neglect our spiritual lives and fail to invest in our relationship with God, we cannot expect to bear good fruit. Spiritual laziness leads to a barren life, while sowing to the Spirit brings forth life and fruitfulness in Christ.
6. Neglecting Fellowship with Other Believers
In Hebrews 10:25, Christians are urged not to forsake the “gathering of believers.” The Christian faith is not meant to be lived in isolation. A strong community of believers provides mutual support, accountability, and encouragement. I am not suggesting that one must be part of a large congregation, as many would argue, but Jesus said, “Where two or three are gathered in My name, there I am in the midst of them.” I know many missionary families who are left in solitary, spiritually dry, and volatile places, with no churches around to support them. Yet, the Word of God comforts us with the fact that the spiritual body of Christ is made up of all believers in Christ, scattered across the globe. Each believer is linked to one another through the Holy Spirit. Just as a natural body functions with each member connected and working together, so too does the body of Christ, with each believer contributing to the whole. This action maintains the unity of the spiritual body of Christ. When we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:7). This is why Ephesians 4:3 urges us to “endeavour to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. It becomes an automated process when we maintain our stance in Christ. Loving one another as Christ loved us is what keeps us united.
That said, local church fellowship is crucial for a newborn believer to grow and be nurtured. When Paul wrote Hebrews 10:25, it’s important to remember that the Bible wasn’t readily available to all believers at that time. Access to Scripture was limited, and when a letter was sent to a church, it was expected that the entire congregation would gather to hear it and receive what the Lord was saying. Neglecting that gathering meant potentially missing out on the spiritual nourishment that was essential for their growth.
However, the world is not the same today. We are immersed in a wealth of written material, especially the Word of God, and resources that provide life. The Bible has been translated into over 700 languages in its entirety (Old and New Testament), with the New Testament available in over 1,500 languages. There are portions of the Bible in more than 3,000 languages. We now have access to countless churches and ministers through digital platforms and are richly blessed with such resources. However, the truth is that this dispensation also holds some of the most corrupt and godless churches. Many have strayed from the truth, following the Nicolaitans’ ways and being confounded by a different spirit, just as Israel gave birth to alien children through spiritual whoredom. Hosea 5:4 and 5:7 describe how Israel, by forsaking God, was influenced by a foreign spirit and led into idolatry, producing “strange children”—spiritual offspring that were corrupted by this unholy influence. Similarly, many churches today are allowing foreign, ungodly influences to shape their teachings and practices, resulting in a distorted faith that no longer aligns with the truth of God’s Word. Instead of remaining rooted in Christ, they give birth to “alien” doctrines, drifting further from the authentic gospel.
– Isolation: A backslidden Christian may begin to isolate themselves from others in the faith, making them more vulnerable to the enemy’s attacks, as 1 Peter 5:8 warns: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” In today’s world, we see denominational biases and divisions that at times create barriers to unity within the body of Christ. These divisions often cancel out the bond of love and fellowship through the Holy Spirit, undermining the very essence of the Church. When you observe such discord and separation, one must ask: Does the Spirit of Christ truly rule in these churches? It’s evident that the unity that Christ prayed for (John 17:21) seems absent in many places, where personal or doctrinal preferences take precedence over the love and unity that should characterize the body of Christ. These divisions only serve to weaken the church and make believers more susceptible to spiritual isolation and the enemy’s influence.
Many professing Christian churches today remain limited to mere religion and institutional structures, such as episcopacy, while leaving behind the true essence of Christ and His doctrines. They have valued the seat of episcopacy and positions of authority more than embodying the humility of a child and the servant-hearted nature that Christ calls us to. These churches have become like a shell, retaining only the framework of faith, yet lacking the spirit of life that should animate and empower believers. Though they may have started with genuine fervour and a desire to follow Christ, over time, they have become dry and withered, forsaking a living relationship with the Lord for the comforts of ritual and tradition. Their faith has become shallow, stripped of the vibrancy and power that comes from abiding in Christ, and as a result, they fail to bear fruit in keeping with true discipleship.
– Avoiding Accountability: Fellowship and accountability are vital for spiritual growth. If a Christian resists accountability or avoids close relationships that challenge them spiritually, it may indicate they are not walking in God’s grace.
7. Doubts About Salvation and Lack of Assurance
Backsliding can lead to deep doubts about salvation. A Christian who is disconnected from God may struggle with assurance, feeling unsure about their relationship with God. While it’s normal for Christians to sometimes question their faith, persistent doubt is often a sign of spiritual drift.
– Loss of Assurance: When a believer stops abiding in Christ, they may begin to doubt God’s promises of salvation and eternal life.
– Guilt and Shame: A backslidden Christian often feels guilty or unworthy, which can lead to spiritual isolation and a sense of separation from God’s grace. The Bible tells us that there is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear because fear has torment. “He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” (1 John 4:18). We love Him because He first loved us. In the past, it was terrifying for the high priest to enter the Holy of Holies, let alone for an ordinary person. As Hebrews 12:20-21 describes, the fear was so intense that even Moses trembled at the sight of God’s holiness at Mount Sinai, where anyone who approached His presence without proper sanctification was struck down. Deuteronomy 5 further emphasizes this fear: “If we hear the voice of the LORD our God any more, then we shall die” (Deuteronomy 5:25)—that was the situation then. But now, through Christ, He has paved the way for us to enter the holiest of all without fear. Instead of trembling in terror, we are called to come boldly to the throne of grace to find mercy and grace to help in time of need (Hebrews 4:16). This is the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice—what was once a fearful and distant experience has now become an invitation for boldness and confidence in God’s presence. Jesus assured us of this in John 6:37, where He says, “All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out.” In Matthew 11:28, He further invites us, saying, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind—2 Timothy 1:7.
8. Fruitless Efforts in Serving God
Even when a Christian attempts to serve God while backslidden, their efforts may lack effectiveness or fruitfulness. Jesus warns in John 15:5 that apart from Him, we can do nothing. When a Christian is disconnected from the vine (Jesus), even acts of service can become empty or self-serving. This is in line with the concept of “holding the truth in unrighteousness” from Romans 1:18. Without being rightly connected to Christ, any good works or acts of service can lack the righteousness and life that come from Him. They may become self-centred or devoid of true spiritual value, as the power to serve effectively and righteously comes only from abiding in Him. Furthermore, holding the truth in unrighteousness is a punishable offence. As Romans 1:18 says, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness.” This shows the seriousness of living in a way that distorts or suppresses God’s truth. It is not merely about outward actions; the heart must remain aligned with God’s will, and when truth is misused or ignored, it invites divine judgement. To remain spiritually effective and fruitful, we must continually abide in Christ, ensuring that our actions are rooted in His righteousness rather than in selfish motives or disobedience.
“For whatsoever is not of faith is sin.” (Romans 14:23, KJV) – This verse emphasizes that actions or decisions made without faith, or without a clear conscience before God, are considered sinful. This doesn’t only apply to eating or certain practices but speaks more broadly about how our actions must be rooted in faith and aligned with God’s will. The key idea is that faith must guide everything we do, ensuring our hearts and actions are aligned with God’s righteousness and His Word. And this faith, which comes from God, is activated only by putting on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness (Ephesians 4:24). When we embrace the new nature in Christ, we are empowered to live in a way that reflects His righteousness and holiness, allowing our faith to grow and be expressed in all that we do. Without this transformation, our faith remains dormant and ineffective, but when we walk in the newness of life, faith becomes the driving force behind our actions.
Conclusion: A Christian Can Feel Saved but Not Live as God Intended
It is possible for someone to identify as a Christian and still be living outside of God’s perfect will. The Bible cautions believers to “examine themselves” to make sure they are still abiding in Christ and not letting sin, worldliness, or indifference derail their spiritual walk (2 Corinthians 13:5).
If righteousness, peace, and joy are missing from one’s life, it’s a strong indicator that they may not be living in God’s grace or abiding in Christ as they should. “Repentance, restoration, and abiding in Christ” are essential for returning to the fullness of life in God’s grace, where peace, joy, and spiritual fruitfulness are restored.
If you sense that you may be in a backslidden state, I urge you to run into the arms of God, seeking His forgiveness. Open your heart to Him, allowing Him to help you out of your struggles and replant you in Christ. Ask Him to rekindle your thirst for Christ and His Word. Pray for the filling of the Holy Spirit, that you may walk worthy of the Lord and live in a way that is pleasing to Him. Imagine the Father of the prodigal son, whose arms were wide open to receive him, even when the son couldn’t envision such love and grace. Despite the son’s waywardness, the Father was waiting, eager to restore him. So, no matter how far you’ve strayed, the Father’s love and mercy are ready to welcome you back, even if you can’t fully comprehend it. His embrace is always there, waiting to receive you with open arms. Today, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.
Allow His transforming power to renew your mind and spirit so that you may bear the fruit of righteousness and grow deeper in your relationship with Him. Remember, He is always faithful to restore, heal, and strengthen those who come to Him with a humble heart, seeking His grace. His mercy is limitless, and He is eager to bring you back into the fullness of His love and purpose.
If you or someone you know feels distant from God or is experiencing spiritual drift, remember that God’s grace is always available. 1 John 1:8, 9 reminds us that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. The road to restoration begins with repentance and a return to the true vine, Jesus Christ.