Are you tired? Worn out serving God? Feel a distance growing between Him and you because you are just too busy? Faithful leaders in Ephesus heard Jesus’ warn them about the same thing: “You have persevered and have patience, and have labored for my name’s sake and have not become weary. Nevertheless….you have left your first love” (Revelation 2:2, 4 NKJV).

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When our lamps are barely flickering and we’re running on empty, Jesus has the answer. He is pictured as the One “who walks in the midst of the seven gold lampstands” (verse 1). What does a high priest do there? He trims the wick and pours in oil so the lamp will burn brighter. That’s a clear illustration of His commitment to help us.

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Jesus says, “Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works” (verse 5). That’s simple. 1) We should picture our sweetest times of closeness with God. 2) We must turn from anything that has separated us from Him—excessive busyness, entertainment, unforgiveness, or any sin. 3) We can then do whatever helped us be close to Him—a certain type of Bible study, journaling, praying while you walk, or small group fellowship, etc.

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It really is that simple—1) remember, 2) repent, and 3) do. It is that simple if we do those three things with our eyes on our high priest. It is Jesus alone who is constantly praying and working to draw us close to God. His death took out sin's barrier and His intercession applies His sacrifice to draw us close.

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Take one step now to let Jesus trim your wick and fill you with oil. You may want to explore the many resources available in our sections called "Experience God" and "Know Jesus."