Just as people are attracted to the warmth of the fire in the fireplace, unbelievers will be attracted to Christians who are passionate about Christ. The Lord wants His followers to be a "city set on a hill" and the "light of the world," shining brightly in the darkness with His love and His message of redemption.

However, it is possible for our fire to grow cold. If this happens to you, take steps to rekindle the flame of your relationship with God.

First, be aware of where you are. Remember your previous life: think about what your relationship with the Lord was like. Then, acknowledge that you have moved away. Ask God to speak to you, and read His Word expectantly. Make time each day for prayer and express a desire to truly know the Lord. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you refocus your attention.

The apostle Paul instructed Timothy on how to please the Heavenly Father. Then he added the reminder to "give yourself wholly" to those things. We too must saturate our minds with God's precepts. The Lord wants your faith to be enthusiastic. He will use your fervor to draw others to Him, and to bless you in the process.

Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I ask You to restore the joy of my salvation. I want to return to my First Love and not forget that moment when I accepted you as my Lord and Savior. May my joy be so great and contagious that other people want to know Jesus. Help me to be a reflection of Your love, grace, and mercy. I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.

1.    1 Timothy 4:15â€"16 (NVI).

Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.