We’ve all experienced the rush of new love, that exhilarating feeling of connection and excitement. Think back to a time you first fell in love – perhaps with a person, a new hobby, or even a place. That initial spark is unforgettable. But what happens when that initial intensity fades? Is it possible to recapture that feeling, to fall in love again, especially in aspects of life that feel routine, like our spiritual journey?
Many people describe their early faith experience with similar language to romantic love: a passionate awakening, a deep connection, an all-consuming focus. However, just like in any relationship, that initial fervor can sometimes wane. Life gets busy, routines set in, and what once felt vibrant can become…comfortable, or even stale.
The original article beautifully illustrates this point through a personal story. The author recounts the intense infatuation he felt for his wife early in their relationship, emphasizing the lengths he went to just to see her. He then draws a parallel to his enduring love for her, even after decades, and how that feeling of renewed love can still arise. This anecdote serves as a powerful metaphor for our relationship with faith.
Just as romantic relationships require nurturing to maintain their spark, so too does our spiritual life. If Christianity, at its heart, is about a love relationship with God, as the original article argues, then the question becomes: How Can You Fall In Love Again with your faith, with your Savior?
The original article highlights that Christianity is more than just rules, activities, or theology. While these aspects are important, they are secondary to the core – a loving relationship with God. When this love is missing, faith can become dry and mechanical. The article poses a crucial question: “Is your faith more about an organization, meetings, and activities than it is about a deep appreciation and affection for Christ?”
To fall in love again with your spiritual life, the answer isn’t about doing more religious activities. It’s about rediscovering the love at the heart of it all. Here are a few ways to rekindle that passion and fall in love again with your faith:
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Reflect on the “Beauty” and “Glory”: The original text encourages us to “Meditate on His beauty. Focus on His glory.” Just as focusing on the admirable qualities of a loved one deepens affection, consciously reflecting on the attributes of God – His love, mercy, grace, power, and holiness – can reignite our awe and admiration. Take time in quiet contemplation, reading scripture, or listening to worship music that directs your attention to God’s character.
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Bask in “Grace”: The article also suggests we “Bask in His grace.” Remembering the core message of grace – undeserved favor, forgiveness freely given – is foundational to Christian love. Reflect on the gift of salvation, the sacrifice of Christ, and the constant forgiveness offered. This reflection cultivates gratitude, a powerful emotion that fuels love.
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Personalize Your Faith: Don’t let your faith become merely a set of doctrines or routines. As the article urges, “Don’t reconsider ‘Christianity’ in the corporate sense of the word – keep it personal.” Engage with your faith in ways that are personally meaningful. This could involve journaling your prayers, spending time in nature reflecting on God’s creation, or serving others in a way that resonates with your passions.
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Seek Fresh Encounters: Just as the author experienced a “fresh sensation of love” upon reuniting with his wife, we too can seek fresh encounters with God. This might involve trying new forms of worship, exploring different spiritual disciplines, or seeking out new perspectives on scripture through sermons or books.
Falling in love again, whether in a relationship or in your spiritual life, requires intentionality and a willingness to look beyond the familiar to rediscover the beauty and wonder that may have become obscured. By focusing on the core of love, grace, and personal connection, you can indeed fall in love again with your faith, experiencing a renewed passion and depth in your spiritual journey.
