Relationship vs. Religion

Do you have a relationship with God or a religion?

Today's devotion by Blackaby reminded me of this all important question. In referencing Exodus 19:4, Blackaby shares:

"We are so activity oriented that we assume we were saved for a task we are to perform rather than for a relationship to enjoy. God uses our activities and circumstances to bring us to Himself."

It is all too easy to slip into the "to do" list of the Christian life and miss out on the relationship God offers us through faith in Jesus Christ.

So which one are you pursuing? A religion or a relationship?

Here are some thoughts to help you process through the difference between the two:

RELIGION:
-focus is on ability
-you change yourself
-confess b/c of guilt
-victory now
-the “what”
-external
-self-control is cause
-self-dependent
-fix it
-walk in darkness
-how are your Quiet Times?

RELATIONSHIP:
-focus is on inability
-God changes you
-confess b/c of sorrow
-reality now, victory later
-the “why”
-internal
-self-control is result
-dependent on God
-can't fix it
-walk in light
-how is your relationship with God?

May we all press on in pursuing a relationship with God.


Richard Carwile, Adult Discipleship Pastor