Another common form of backsliding is through love for the world.

It is not unusual for those who once seemed zealous, affectionate, and devoted to God to gradually lose their spiritual fervor once they become settled in life and absorbed in its daily responsibilities. As they pursue their business and personal goals, their heart for God fades, and they begin to care about little else except saving money.

This attitude is rarely condemned by society. In fact, as long as someone is fair in business, the world praises such conduct as wise. “Men will praise you when you do well for yourself.” They say, “He’s a careful man, a man who knows how to secure his future.”....