A Vain Religion Is Not Religion!

"To become Christ-like is the only thing in the whole world worth caring for, the thing before which every ambition of man is folly and all lower achievement vain."  - Henry Drummond

There are many things in this world that are either empty, cheap, or weak in substance. Some are pursued, purchased, or construed and adopted without a lot of forethought by many. Whatever the case may be, a true believer in Jesus Christ mustn't allow himself to become another statistic.

One of the biggest threats to a Christian's journey is to acquire, or participate in vain religion. And while it may sound complicated, it really isn't. Sadly, there are a lot of folks walking around out there practicing vain religion and may not realize it.

Vain religion dupes a person into straying off the path upon which Jesus has set us forth. Rather than heeding the straight teachings of Christ, the deceived believer falsely inserts his own thoughts and actions instead. This, as you may have guessed, can be a very dangerous course to take. (James 4:17)

Religion itself is not a vain thing. However, when, for example, one becomes more concerned about how they are seen "religiously" by others, it is a sure sign of vain religion. Some other indications of a tainted view of religion are: acts of belittlement and criticism toward others, and self-righteousness, to name only a few. (Romans 3:23)

Many times, a vain religion isn't always so obvious. Someone who practices vain religion may exhibit symptoms which, to the unassuming world might seem perfectly normal. Take the Pharisees for example. Their zeal for religion was seen as quite pious, but their strict practices were done just as much for keeping up appearances, as they were for religion. (Matthew 23:13)

There's nothing wrong with diving headstrong into religion if it is done with a true heart. But, too many times it is used as a platform to appear better than others, or worse. Any religion, if used for a self-serving agenda, is totally unacceptable. Jesus Christ taught us better than that. His lessons emphasized love, compassion, and sacrifice for others. (Matthew 7:5)

I urge you to examine your heart today. Does any of the above describe you? I certainly am not condemning, or judging anyone here. I, definitely am not the one to do this. If anything, I hope that I brought the possibility, and our vulnerability of slipping into a vain religion to your attention.

To diminish the risk, continue reading the Bible daily, establish and maintain a regular prayer routine, and always be aware that the Great Deceiver (Satan) loves nothing more than ensnaring us with his lies and false promises. (1 John 3:10)

They only serve to feed destructive, self-righteousness and hypocritical behaviors, especially as they pertain to hindering or disrupting our relationship with Jesus Christ. Remember, vain religion fools and deceives the heart. In the end, you will only be consumed by your own deception.

Scripture: James 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians 11:1-2; 2 Timothy 3:16; Psalm 118:8; Matthew 23:29

Prayer: Dear Jesus, I know that a loving, true, and believing heart is pleasing to You. May my heart always be so for You. Amen

May God bless you!

Charlene