“…most people’s love will grow cold” (Matthew 24:12)
Right after salvation many Christians feel a profound appreciation for God’s love and forgiveness. We’re eager to spend time with other believers and we’re passionate about the things of God. But as time passes that initial fervor can cool down, and we can become passive in our love for Jesus and others. So, how do we maintain that initial fervent, passionate love over time? The Bible gives two key reasons our love grows cold and tells us how to combat them.
Jesus said, “Because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will grow cold” (Matthew 24:12). In the New Testament, lawlessness typically signifies rebellion against God’s righteous standards. So, Jesus wasn’t referring to the laws of the land but to God’s laws. Something can be a legal act yet be abhorrent to the Lord. It’s not hard to recognize this kind of rebellion increasing in our world today.
Maintaining fervent love for God in a culture that promotes rebelling against Him requires intentionality and persistence. We must guard our hearts by immersing ourselves in Scripture and allowing it to shape how we think. Otherwise, we start to believe the cold-hearted version of love promoted by the world, which is far from God’s design.
The second reason our love grows cold is that it’s misplaced on self (2 Timothy 3:2). The world entices us to prioritize self-love, self-indulgence, and material possessions. Self-love is the supreme enemy of godliness, genuine friendship, and true fellowship with Christ. It’s impossible to love people as Jesus does if we’re primarily in love with ourselves. The Bible instructs believers to put the needs of others above our own and to place God above all (Philippians 2:3-4; Mark 12:30).
Scripture also identifies lawlessness and self-love as signs of living in the last days; and Christians aren’t immune to these dangers. What about you? Are there areas where you’re in rebellion against God’s standards? Even harboring a wrong attitude opens the door to becoming passive. Are your highest affections misplaced? How much time and thought do you give to self-indulgences?
If you want a love for God and others that remains fervent and true, then be intentional about guarding your heart. Immerse your mind in Scripture so it’s easy to recall when you need it. Remember, the closer you follow Jesus, the more protected you are from the world’s influences.
