As Christians, we are faced with a human problem. You see, as much as we deny it, our FAITH is as much a “religion” to us as all the other existing religions in the world. We claim that Christianity is the ONLY true faith and belief in God. We claim that our faith is not a religion rather a relationship with God. But unfortunately, our actions don’t align with what we our alleged believe.
Where’s the problem?
The problem is in our behavior. Always remember that our behavior will always come from our belief. Our belief system is always exposed by our actions. When our actions become ritualistic in our faith, then we’ve entered into a belief system of religion.
If our faith in Christ is a relationship, then our walk with Him, at all times, should be passionate as much as it’s continuous. As humans, we have a propensity to always require external stimuli in order to create inner change. And although that is necessary at first, it’s not the formula for keeping the continual fires of passion ignited for God.
We must fight ritualism at all times. We must remain constant and faithful in our values and disciplines. But it’s in how we do so which determines whether we’ve entered into a ritualistic religious mode.
As much as you can, fight the need of having constant external stimuli to keep you motivated. Although it’s necessary, it’s not designed to bring change; it’s purpose is to inspire you to make the necessary changes in order for you to constantly engineer change.
I’m learning to extract life out of everyday disciplines that are essential to my walk with God – i.e. Prayer, Bible Reading, Meditating, etc.
Blog entry #25 – Working on Keeping it Fresh
