How to Change Christian Religion into a Christian Relationship - Spiritual Nugget 1

One morning a group of us were having coffee at the local coffee place when our conversation suddenly shifted to a discussion about the Bible. One of my colleagues abruptly stated, “Oh, I am not religious.”  Immediately, everyone became quiet not quite knowing how to respond to this comment.    

Actually, this is a pretty typical response when people are discussing spiritual issues. If you are a non-believer, you see any discussion related to God or the Bible as religious. If you are a Christian, you frequently refer to the Bible and God as the Christian religion.   

The word religion is a major stumbling block to Bible-based belief. When the word religion is spoken by definition it means “a belief in a religious deity, god or gods;” in other words, it refers to no particular person or thing. It is open to interpretation. 

Over the years, I became increasingly sensitive that Christianity is set apart from cults, pagan religions, and idol worship by more than a belief in a god. It is an expression of the nature and personality of love. It is a bond based on truth, light and the Spirit of love for mankind.  

I am intimately linked to someone who unashamedly and at all times loves me and the world. He sees my unloveliness, yet knows my worth and values me for who I am and who I may become (Philippians 1:6). 

I am truly the object of His love. He is affectionate to me, shows interest in me, cares for me, sacrifices for me, strengthens, forgives, heals, protects and provides for me. I have more than a belief in Him, I love Him. I am His love, and He is mine. He is not my enemy, but my friend, and never forgets me or leaves me to make it on my own. Nothing can separate me from Him (Romans 8:38). “I am graven upon the palms of His hands” (Isaiah 49:16).    
    
Here are some things you can say when someone uses the word religion to describe Christianity.   

• Religion is a belief in a deity or god; Christianity is an expression of Divine love. 
• Religion expresses the outward worship of God (or a god) by human effort; Christianity focuses on the inward man who is completely dependent upon the Lord. 
• Religion brings a sense of guilt/condemnation and judgment; Christianity rests on mercy/forgiveness, redemption, and love.

I cannot undo the legal definition of religion, but I can be the clay pot that boldly gives an answer when I hear the words, “I am not religious.”   ​

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