Author Darlene J Conard

A reader recently reached out to me with this message: “Darlene, I feel lukewarm in my faith. Although I am praying, I still feel unsatisfied. I want to return to the place I  was when I first committed my life to God. Will you do a blog about this?”

God spoke to me once when I asked, “Lord, I want to go back and feel what I experienced when I first went to the altar.” He replied, “I don’t want to take you back. I want to lead you to a higher place in Me, to greater depths.”

We often feel unsatisfied with the routines we used to follow, and there’s a reason for that. I don’t pray, worship, or respond to situations as I once did when my knees pressed against the carpet, when I realized that I was a sinner.

The term “lukewarm” in Greek conveys a sense of apathy or a lack of enthusiasm. It can refer to a response that lacks fervor or passion. In this context, Greeks might use the phrase χλιαρός ενθουσιασμός (chliarós enthousiasmós), which translates to “lukewarm enthusiasm.” Alternatively, the word αδιάφορος (adíaforos) can be used, meaning “indifferent” or “uninterested,” depending on the tone of the conversation.

Revelation 3:15-17 KJV  ^“ I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.  Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and need nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:”

Striving is far from being complacent or indifferent; rather, it embodies a deep-seated determination coupled with an unwavering pursuit of one’s passion. To seek means to engage earnestly in a struggle, characterized by passion and a strong commitment to overcoming obstacles in the pursuit of one’s goals.

In the biblical context, specifically in the book of Luke 13:22-24, an enlightening moment occurs when the disciples approach Jesus with a weighty question that reflects their inner turmoil and yearning for understanding: “How can we possibly enter the kingdom of heaven when the gate is so narrow and seems difficult to pass through?” This inquiry captures their genuine concern about the challenges associated with spiritual salvation and the fear of not being able to attain it.

In response to their worries, Jesus instructs them, “Strive to enter in.” This directive encourages you to seek spiritual truth and fulfillment. His words highlight that while the path will be challenging, it is through this effort that one can grasp the profound mercy He extends to us. The call to strive is not just about personal effort. It also involves accepting the life-changing experiences that grace brings to us.

Growth often comes with discomfort, similar to the pain of stretching beyond our current limits. When someone feels completely at ease and content with their spiritual journey and connection with the Lord, it raises a flag for me—there’s a sense that something is wrong. I find myself in a state of persistent longing and restlessness, driven by the understanding that there are richer, deeper realms to explore within my relationship with God. The journey to spiritual depth is never-ending, and I yearn to go deeper into His presence.

Yesterday, my spiritual momma told me something: “ A backslidden person doesn’t hear from God.”

I urge you to keep pushing forward, to persevere with determination, and to continue your prayers. Immerse yourself in His word as you embark on this journey. In due time, you will find yourself arriving at the destination that God has prepared for you. Have faith in the path ahead!

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

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