" The causes  of this mournful state of things are manifold. It may arise through a  comparative neglect of prayer, for a neglected closet is the beginning  of all spiritual decline. Or it may be the result of idolatry. The  heart has been occupied with something else, more than with God; the  affections have been set on the things of earth, instead of the things  of heaven. A jealous God will not be content with a divided heart; he  must be loved first and best. He will withdraw the sunshine of his  presence from a cold, wandering heart. Or the cause may be found in  self-confidence and self-righteousness. Pride is busy in the heart, and  self is exalted instead of lying low at the foot of the cross.  "

― Charles Haddon Spurgeon , Morning and Evening, Based on the English Standard Version