The Religion You Have!

Someone has rightfully pointed out… “It is not worthwhile to argue about the religion you haven’t got.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips”, compiled by E. C. McKenzie]

How can someone think they can encourage others to attend where they do not attend? How can one expect to encourage others to get their priorities right when they themselves appear to put the world before God? As I have seen individuals try to do such it has not been surprising when their efforts have failed. I have heard people argue and passionately defend Biblical points they did not appear to practice in their own life. How can anyone possibly expect to get others to take seriously something that is not SEEN to be taken seriously themselves.

James warned…
“If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, THIS PERSON’S RELIGION IS WORTHLESS.” ( James 1:26 ESV)

The way we CONDUCT our lives says much more about what we believe than do the claims we make. We can argue the truth of Scripture until we’re blue in the face, but if we are not living out those truths in our daily lives, why should we expect to be taken seriously?

Paul exhorted the church at Philippi…
“What you have LEARNED and RECEIVED and HEARD AND SEEN IN ME --PRACTICE these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”
( Philippians 4:9 ESV)

Are we living in such a way that we could -- in all good conscience -- encourage others to practice what they have learned, received, heard, AND SEEN in us? Paul’s aim was that in all things Christ would be glorified in his life. If that is also our sincere focus for living, then the holy and practical value of our religion will become evident.

Have a great day TRULY EXEMPLIFYING PURE RELIGION!
Carl

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