It’s not about religion; it’s about a relationship
Attending the funeral of a very lovely lady and friend to my wife and I, the preacher gave an excellent talk about her life. From what he explained to those in attendance, all of us could visualize what he was saying through the actions and characteristics this lady had lived.
She was a Christian first and foremost. She was never ashamed to admit loving Jesus and carrying out His Word in her daily activities. She was in church every Sunday and Wednesday that she was able, and she always helped in needed places surrounding the church and community spreading the gospel and saving grace of our Lord and Savior to the senior adults and the children.
Many of us in the world today want to emphasize our church preference and religion to anyone that will listen. All of us are guilty of pushing our thoughts on religion and why we worship where we do.
There are many different religions, some are good and teach the saving grace of Jesus. Some are about the world and the church leader, and how much money they can take from your pockets using the name of Jesus. Some of these are known as cults and others are known for teaching prosperity gospel and make me rich schemes.
Religions are something many people will argue with you about. Personally speaking, I will not argue religion with anyone however, I will talk to you about the saving grace that only Jesus can provide. Salvation is not what the church or world can do for you, it is about the freedom to accept or reject what Jesus offers to us as a free gift. It is a personal communication between you and God.
Churches and religion offer you different ways of expressing your love for Jesus. Many think their religion is better than others and to them it may be, but others find comfort in worshipping with others in a different way. Religion gathers people together to express their views of what they feel is an appropriate sanctuary for them to express through outward experiences their inward feeling.
For all of us that believe the Bible is the inspired, inerrant Word of God will claim victory over the world through our belief in Jesus Christ. John 3:16 tells us; “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
Our dear friend that left her family and this world behind knew that her relationship, love, and belief in Jesus was all she needed to spend eternity with Him. According to the Bible this is where she is today. I also believe and have accepted Christ as my Savior and will spend eternity with Him also. As she did in sharing her belief in Christ, this was her religious way of expressing her love for family and others. It is my hope that I am doing the same by my daily actions through my character and my speech.
Religion will not get you to Heaven. Only a personal relationship with Jesus will do this. Have you accepted Christ as your Savior? If not, will you accept Him into your heart today?
Prayer: Thank you Lord for the life and commitment of our friend has who joined you in Heaven. I pray that I may lead others to you through the life that I portray. Let it all be about you. Amen.
