03.06.06
On religiosity
Religiosity is a common human failing. It is all to common for folks to affect a “Religious Tone” in the way they talk, but with no true connection to God. Jesus condemned such folk in the form of the Pharisee sect of the Jewish faith. He came down hard on them time and time again because they wanted to “look religious” without getting to know God.
“Being religious” isn’t a bad thing - if it’s real. The trouble comes when an appearance of piety takes the place of genuine piety. Our Creator desires a personal interaction with us. He wants to see a real change in our lives. He wants to see Himself reflected in the way we live. But to often folks would rather “appear religious” than to allow the true power of God’s spirit to cleanse their lives.
Here are a few verses for reflexion.
Hosea 6:6 For I desire goodness, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt-offerings.
Micah 6:8 He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth Jehovah require of thee, but to do justly, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with thy God?
Matthew 9:13 But go ye and learn what this meaneth, I desire mercy, and not sacrifice, for I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.
Mt 12:7 But if ye had known what this meaneth, I desire mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless.
None of the above are things which can be faked. They must come from a heart that is searching for God’s way and that is yeilded to His Will.
Religiosity? Shun it like the plague. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.