Bible Reading: Psalm 63:1
What does it mean to have religion?
A person with a “religion” uses God to get what he wants.
A person with a “religion” expects God to do things for him.
A person with a “religion” “seeks God in order that God would do for him.”
A person with a “religion” gives the external appearance of loving, obeying, and serving God while at the same time internally complaining.
Having a relationship with God through Jesus Christ is different. Psalm 63:1 describes a relationship with God this way: “O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my bodylongs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.”
A person with a “relationship” with God cheerfully accepts God and whatever God offers.
A person with a “relationship” with God expects to do things for God and other people.
A person with a “relationship” with God “seeks God first” – period.
A person with a “relationship” with God willingly gives up all he has, even to the point of dying, in order to love, obey, serve, and cling to God with all his heart, soul, and mind.
Do you have religion…or do you have a relationship with God?
“It is the LORD your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him.” Deuteronomy 13:4
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I’ve had enough of religion. I want a relationship with you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.