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What does the term "backslide" mean?

Backsliding refers to a believer who was once close to Christ but who has fallen into sin and, thus, fallen away from Him. "'Your wickedness will punish you; your backsliding will rebuke you. Consider then and realize how evil and bitter it is for you when you forsake the Lord your God and have no awe of me,' declares the Lord, the Lord Almighty" (Jer. 2:19). The Lord showed the prophet Jeremiah that backsliding was a terrible offense. I imagine that God must find it reprehensible that one who knew His grace and loving forgiveness could walk away from it and return to a life of sin.

If this describes you, if you once loved the Lord--even as a small child--but no longer walk with Him, then you must realize that He grieves over the loss of you. He longs for you to return to Him. He waits with open arms. First John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." It is not too late for you; however, tomorrow could be too late. Don't wait another moment to return to the Lord. You can say a simple prayer like this one: Lord Jesus, I am sorry that I walked away from You. Please forgive me of my sins and restore the relationship that I once had with You. Thank you for loving me enough to draw me back to You. Amen.

God bless you as you begin a new walk with the Lord!