I broke up with religion. Religion has done me wrong. Disappointed me at every turn. Lied to me about God. Wrongly defined who I am.
The definition of religion can vary, depending on the source. Everyone defines religion from their knowledge and personal experience. The definitions intersect occasionally, but overall, it’s a mixed bag.
I attempted to be religious, which to me meant being perfect in every way, and following every man devised rule so hopefully God would be pleased with me. I worked to earn God’s love and approval. I did the do’s – and didn’t the don’ts.
It was exhausting. Disappointing. Depressing. Burdensome. I was full of guilt and drowning in regrets.
Matthew 11:28, in the Amplified Version says, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation].”
After reading these words of Jesus, I realized we were not made for man-made religion. We were made for rest in what Jesus has done for us.
Man-made religion is a list of rules, tending to focus on preferences of whomever made the list. Many times, this list is based on our outward appearance, focusing on our good deeds and comparing ourselves to each other.
The Bible gives a definition of religion which breaks it all down. It is a verse I did not hear when I was stuck in my religious routines.
“Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.” James 1:27 (NLT)
Caring for orphans and widows and refusing to let the world corrupt you. Where is the long list of man-made rules, I had been wrestling for most of my life? Clearly God is thinking of people who need our help, and not how perfect we seem to be.
I am thankful for my church upbringing, which started in a good, Bible believing church where we felt like family. I learned many Bible stories, memorized Bible verses, and it’s where I first met Jesus. Somewhere along the way, I questioned God’s love for me, became a rule follower and a people pleaser.
Religion can simply be defined as the way we worship God and care for others, but for me it had become a list of rules and things I must do to please God. I was trying to work my way into good graces with God, when I was already in grace because Jesus died for me.
I worship God by being in relationship with Him, not by doing all the things.
I do the things because of relationship, not doing things to earn relationship.
It’s never the religious rituals, it’s resting in what Jesus has done. And because of this, I’m sticking with my breakup.
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