In the realm of spiritual journeys, backsliding is an often-overlooked phenomenon, yet it’s crucial in understanding the dynamics of our relationship with God. Tonight, we’re delving into the depths of this topic, guided by the insightful teachings of Scripture. As we explore Genesis 13, the story of Abram (later known as Abraham) and Lot, we’ll uncover 3 mistakes every backslider makes. This journey isn’t just about identifying errors; it’s about finding the path back to God’s grace.
1. Weak Devotions: The First Step Away
The life of Abram, a figure of unwavering faith, contrasts starkly with that of Lot. Abram’s consistent practice of building altars (Genesis 13:18) symbolizes a strong, committed devotional life. It’s a poignant reminder of the importance of daily spiritual practices—reading the Bible, prayer, and church participation.
Genesis 13:18 (NIV): “So Abram moved his tents and went to live near the great trees of Mamre at Hebron, where he built an altar to the Lord.”
But what about Lot? Scripture is silent about his spiritual practices. This silence speaks volumes. It suggests Lot’s devotions were weak, nonexistent even. This is the first of 3 mistakes every backslider makes—neglecting their spiritual health. As James 4:8 reminds us, drawing near to God is a proactive, daily effort.
James 4:8 (NIV): “Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
2. Worldly Desires: The Lure of the Temporal
Lot’s choice of the fertile plains of the Jordan Valley (Genesis 13:10-11) is a classic example of being swayed by worldly desires. He chose the visually appealing, the materially abundant. But this choice led him toward Sodom and Gomorrah, infamous for their wickedness. This decision reflects the Bible’s warning in 1 John 2:15-17—the danger of loving the world and its offerings.
Genesis 13:10-11 (NIV): 10 Lot looked around and saw that the whole plain of the Jordan toward Zoar was well watered, like the garden of the Lord, like the land of Egypt. This was before the Lord destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah. 11 So Lot chose for himself the whole plain of the Jordan and set out toward the east. The two men parted company.
1 John 2:15-17 (NIV): 15 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. 16 For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. 17 The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”
Worldly desires often stem from weak devotions. When our spiritual foundations are shaky, our vulnerability to temporal temptations increases. Lot’s choice was more than a physical relocation; it was a spiritual descent, a step away from God’s path—a second of 3 mistakes every backslider makes.
3. Wrong Decisions: The Consequences of Straying
Lot’s decision to settle near Sodom (Genesis 13:12) was more than a geographical move; it was a spiritual misstep. This is the third of 3 mistakes every backslider makes—making decisions that lead away from God. Like Lot, many find themselves on the brink, contemplating choices that could lead to spiritual downfall.
Genesis 13:12 (NIV): “Abram lived in the land of Canaan, while Lot lived among the cities of the plain and pitched his tents near Sodom.”
Hebrews 10:38-39 cautions us about the dire consequences of turning away from God. It’s a reminder that our choices have eternal implications. The story of Lot serves as a sobering example of how wrong decisions, often stemming from weak devotions and worldly desires, can lead us away from God’s presence.
Hebrews 10:38-39 (NIV): 38 And, ‘But my righteous one will live by faith. And I take no pleasure in the one who shrinks back.’ 39 But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved.
Conclusion: 3 Mistakes Every Backslider Makes Path Back to God
The story of Abram and Lot is not just a cautionary tale; it’s a roadmap for redemption. For those who recognize these 3 mistakes every backslider makes in their own lives, there’s hope. Hosea 14:4 offers a powerful promise—God’s willingness to heal backsliding. This is the heart of the Gospel—grace, forgiveness, and the chance to return to God’s embrace.
Hosea 14:4 (NIV): 4 “I will heal their waywardness and love them freely, for my anger has turned away from them.”
In closing, let’s remember that backsliding isn’t an irreversible plunge. It’s a series of missteps that can be retraced. By strengthening our devotions, realigning our desires with God’s will, and making decisions rooted in faith, we can find our way back to the path God has set for us.
Let’s take this message to heart, fortify our spiritual practices, and walk steadfastly in the light of God’s truth.
In His Service,
Guardians of Biblical Truth
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