Everyone has a struggle. Every person who has done things "the right way" still have something that God is calling them to give up to him. Every Christian and non-Christian alike is tempted by sin daily. You are not a Saint by stepping in and out of a church service every Sunday.
"You seem like everything is going good... it must be because you go to church.... I really need to get back into religion".
Ever heard this?-- Or said this?
Each time I hear this, I am reminded of how the word "Religion" has skewed the true meaning of what a Christ follower really is. For years, people have judged each other, pointed fingers at one another, and convinced themselves that if they go to church and read their bible enough, they will get into heaven.
Instead of accepting each other, helping each other, and walking alongside them in life-- Religion chooses to push things under the rug and not face the fact that believers do struggle with adultery, pornography, alcoholism, jealousy, abortion, etc. People need help getting through their struggles, they don't need to be kicked while they are down.
There is nothing magical about being a Christian. You do not suddenly stop sinning. The impure thoughts do not automatically leave your mind. You won't suddenly be able to quote bible verses and you won't walk on water. But when you do accept Christ, your mind and heart will be transformed. You will leave your old life behind and become a new creation in Christ.
The bible says in 2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!"
You come to a point when you realize that no matter how many empty traditions you follow, how much 'stuff' you have, how many repetitive church services you attend, or how much you try to make your life look perfect-- nothing can fill the void that will only be fulfilled by a relationship with your Savior Jesus Christ.
A parent will not fill it, a spouse, a child, a boyfriend or even your best friend will not replace your need for Christ's presence in your life.
Don't let people's judgements and stiff traditions keep you from knowing Jesus Christ-- that's what Religion does. Stop trying to fix yourself. Stop trying to "clean your life up" before you can decide to become a Christian. Such perfectionists we are. That is God's job.
The Holy Spirit will enter your life and give you the strength, the wisdom, the compassion, and the confidence that you will never find on your own. You don't have to be perfect, because God does not expect us to be. In fact, he knew we wouldn't ever be perfect.... that is why he sent his son to die for us.
"The spirit will always triumph over the flesh-- And relationship will always triumph over religion" - Tom Mercer.
Check out the "Vote No on Religion" series at http://www.highdesertchurch.com/
and join us at HDC, where you will experience Relationship, not religion.
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