May the Lord our God be with us as he was with our ancestors; may he never leave us or abandon us.
1 Kings 8:57 NLT
Religion or relationship?
You can have a relationship with God. You practice a religion for God. The only religion that is worthwhile in God’s eyes is being with people who are suffering and loving them.
Our faith is in God. We believe that He is with us. We follow God when we humble ourselves and let Him take the lead. You can only do this through a relationship with the Holy Spirit.
God is not dead. He is alive. He has a mind, will and emotions. He has a plan and a purpose. He invites us into an eternal relationship with Him. It is only made possible through what Jesus has done for us.
Walk with God. Talk with God. Fellowship with God. Get to know Him. He loves you.
Religion is dead. It’s a system. It’s rules and regulations. It’s a form of godliness without real relationship with God. Everything is a performance. It’s done for God in the hopes of pleasing Him. It does not please Him because pride is disgusting to Him. Pride is a sin. It separates us from God.
Religion is rooted in rebellion. It says I can do it without God’s help. We cannot do anything without God.
Quit trying to do things for God. Repent of selfish ambition. Do things with God. Let Him be in control. It is the way of grace, peace and rest in Him.
Relax.
God is in control. May you abide in Him today. Amen.
Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.
Matthew 28:20 NLT