7, 8. What serious problem existed in the congregation in Ephesus, and how might we deal with a similar situation?

⁷ Yet, Christians in Ephesus had a serious problem. “I hold this against you,” said Jesus, “that you have left the love you had at first.” Members of the congregation needed to rekindle their first love for Jehovah. (Mark 12:28-30; Ephesians 2:4; 5:1, 2) We ourselves must guard against losing our first love for God. (3 John 3) But what if such things as a desire for material riches or the pursuit of pleasure are becoming paramount in our lives? (1 Timothy 4:8; 6:9, 10) Then we should fervently pray for divine help to replace such inclinations with deep-seated love for Jehovah and gratitude for all that he and his Son have done for us.​—1 John 4:10, 16.

11. How may we be able to promote love for Jehovah?

¹¹ The Ephesians had lost their first love, but what if a similar situation is developing in a congregation today? Let us individually promote love for Jehovah by talking about his loving ways. We can express our gratitude for the love God showed in providing the ransom by means of his dear Son. (John 3:16; Romans 5:8) When appropriate, we can mention God’s love in comments and in program parts at meetings. We can show our own love for Jehovah by praising his name in the Christian ministry. (Psalm 145:10-13) Yes, our words and actions may do much to rekindle or strengthen a congregation’s first love.