When Someone You Love Walks Away From God

When a person we love begins pulling away from faith in God, fear can make every conversation feel like our last chance to bring them back.

We remember when they prayed with us, and their distance hurts.

We cannot make them believe. Our part begins with listening.

Hebrews is warning believers that one of their own can begin leaving the God they trusted.

Verse 13 tells them to keep encouraging one another, because the longer a person believes a lie, the less willing they may be to listen.

That daily encouragement belongs to the whole community. It isn't a command for one person to confront the same loved one every day.

Hebrews shows us the value of steady encouragement. Another disciple name James shows us the posture for a hard conversation:

"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:"

James 1:19 (KJV)

That means letting them finish before we answer and keeping anger out of the conversation. They may tell us they were hurt or that they've got a question they can't ignore.

We shouldn't give up on them or confuse pressure with love. Their return is not ours to force because Jesus is the Savior, not us.

What love with wisdom looks like in action:

1. Pray before you contact them.

Ask Jesus to keep fear from turning the conversation into an argument.

2. Ask permission.

Start with one question: "Would you be willing to tell me what you believe about God now?"

If they say no, respect the answer and don't press the subject. Give them room, and listen for a better time. The whole point is to invite into the conversation not invoke. Different I's.

3. Stay connected if the relationship is wanted and safe.

Call them about ordinary things if they still want that relationship. Invite them to dinner because not ever talk has to be a deep, impactful sermon.

If contact involves threats or abuse, keep your distance and continue praying.

PRAYER

Merciful Father, a person I love has pulled away from You.

I want them back, and fear can make me talk too much.

Teach me to listen before I answer. Also teach me to believe and trust that You want them to return even more than I do.

Give me humility when I speak.

Help me accept their no without anger.

Help me speak about Jesus without trying to force the conversation.

Keep me from acting like I am their Savior.

In Jesus' name. Amen.