Search This Blog

I'm a religious person...isn't that enough?

A man is not a Jew if he is only one outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. No, a man is a Jew if he is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a man’s praise is not from men, but from God. Romans 2:28-29

Religion is a manmade organization with its own set of rules, laws or expectations it feels are the best way to get close to God. For Jewish men during the time of the apostle Paul, it was expected that they be circumcised to fulfill Jewish laws. Today, a “religious” person goes to church, gives a little when the offering plate is passed and prays when convenient.

A religious person does what his religion tells him to do.

Now, there are many religions out there with their own beliefs that vary from Catholic to Pentecostal, Muslim to Mormon. So if someone says they are religious and following all the laws their religion expects them to follow, it doesn’t mean they are doing the right thing.

A religion isn’t always right.

A relationship, though, is a connection between two people based on love, trust and acceptance. The motives are based on a heart decision. In a religion, people are trying to appease the organization, getting their praise from men. In a relationship, they focus on the person they have a bond with.

When it comes to a spiritual relationship, our focus should be on the one we have a relationship with…God…and fulfill all the things he requires because we love him.

If you are going through all the motions and talking the talk on the outside, but if there is no change to you on the inside, it’s all for nothing. The change needs to come from within one’s heart, not just in one’s actions.