A backslider is someone who has reversed their direction in a given area. In terms of Christian faith and life, it usually refers to a person who at one time had a vital, meaningful relationship with Jesus as their Savior but who has turned away from the values of following Christ and living a moral, upright life.
But the Lord says, in the verses below, that He loves the backslider, that He is married to them, and that He will heal their condition by bringing them back to Himself. Glory to God!
Return, O backsliding children,” says the Lord; “for I am married to you. (Jer 3:14a)
Return, you backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings. (Jer 3:22a)
I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely . . . (Hos 14:4a)
This turning away from faith may happen if a person isn’t connected to a church or a body of believers with whom to fellowship. It may also occur if someone becomes neglectful about Bible reading, prayer, and praise and worship. These are all forms of communication with the Lord, and any relationship will wither and collapse without ongoing, regular communication.
So we can’t allow our affections for the Lord to cool down by discarding the habits that uphold and sustain our faith in Jesus. It’s always good to review our conduct occasionally to make sure that we’re making decisions that will positively impact our life of faith. Our life habits should sustain and nurture our Christian faith, so guard them well.
Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord . . . (Ac 3:19) Our sympathetic Savior is happy to restore and to revive our relationship with Him at all times. And He says that times of refreshing will follow, times of rejuvenating the relationship with Him and pouring out grace upon you to inspire you in fresh ways.
Anyone who has backslidden from their faith in Christ has hope. The Lord is loving, merciful, and kind. He longs for us to return to Him and to reestablish our relationship with Him—the God who is love. (1 Joh 4:8) God bless you.
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