Religion Vs. Relationship

Religion: a specific fundamental set of beliefs and practices generally agreed upon by a number of persons or sects

Relationship: a connection, association, or involvement

I have been thinking a lot about the church...meaning the body of Christ. The church as it is and the church as in what God's will is for the church. I believe that sadly the church as a whole has strayed so far away from what God intended it to be.

Last night we spent some great time in the word and prayer and worship with some dear friends at one of our friends home. It was intimate, it was sweet, and the presence of God was definitely there. It was a spontaneous event, it was not planned and it was wonderful.

As we sat in worship with a simple worship song I began thinking more about what the church has become. In this sweet moment I thought...isn't this what it's all about? Intimacy? Connecting with our maker? Being in fellowship with one another in His presence? Yes, in the church there is worship and teaching, very much needed to grow as believers. But what about the intimacy that God longs for between us and Him? What about the bitterness, anger, legalistic attitudes, laws, and judgment that is among His believers within His church keeping us from really experiencing what He long for His people?

I am not saying that every church has it wrong or that the church as a whole has everything out of place. But I do honestly believe that across the board the church has lost sight of God's design for His people. How can we reach out to the none believers, if we ourselves as "believers" have discord, strife, hurt, bitterness, (list could go on here...) among ourselves that is unresolved?

I believe God wants to speak to our hearts on a personal level through relationship. Not through some denomination or religion. He wants us to come to Him as we do our dearest, closest friend. We don't need to attach ourselves to some denomination, religion, or dare I say...church, to have have what God desires for us. Relationship with Him is so important. It's not about the deeds, we should all know that. But why is it the church is so wrapped up in coming up with ideas to "reach out, bring others into the fold..." all in the name of God but can't do it among themselves within their own four wall (at home AND in the church buildings).

I will step down from soap box here and just say that I sense change. I believe that something great is on the horizon for those who are willing to reach and receive it from the Master. God is so gentle and will not force Himself on anyone. But if we just reach out to Him, I believe He will give us all that we need. And it is through our relationship with that we can experience it fully.

I encourage you to break through into His presence. Spend time seeking Him out. Speak to Him as you would your best friend. Open up to a deeper relationship with Him. I am and I'm seeing more and more clearly what He desires from me as I do. It excites me. Who knows what is in the future but it is our relationship with He who knows the future is what's most important.