Beyond Religion: The Vital Necessity of Knowing God's Word for Yourself
In our journey of faith, it's easy to fall into the trap of religion - going through the motions, depending on others for spiritual nourishment, and neglecting our own personal relationship with God. But in these days, it's more crucial than ever that we move beyond religion and into a vibrant, life-giving connection with our Heavenly Father.
The Danger of Secondhand Faith
Don't get me wrong - pastors, teachers, and spiritual leaders are vital gifts to the Body of Christ. They are called to equip us, guide us, and point us to truth (Ephesians 4:11-12). But they were never meant to be a substitute for our own direct relationship with God.
When we depend solely on others for our spiritual sustenance, we are settling for secondhand faith. We are relying on their revelation, their encounter with God's Word, rather than seeking it for ourselves. And while their insights can certainly enrich our faith, they should never replace our own personal pursuit of God.
The Call to Come Directly
Throughout Scripture, we see God's invitation to come to Him directly. Jesus said in Matthew 11:28:
"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
He didn't say, "Go to your pastor," or "Depend on your small group leader." He said, "Come to me." The invitation is personal, intimate, and available to every believer.
Similarly, the Psalmist declared in Psalm 34:8:
"Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!"
Again, the call is to a firsthand experience of God's goodness and presence. It's a call to taste for ourselves, not just to hear about it from others.
The Importance of Knowing the Word
One of the primary ways we come directly to God is through His Word. The Bible is not just a religious text or a collection of inspiring stories. It is the living, active Word of God, sharper than any two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12).
When we read the Word for ourselves, when we meditate on it day and night (Psalm 1:2), when we allow it to dwell in us richly (Colossians 3:16), something powerful happens. We begin to hear God's voice more clearly. We start to discern His will more accurately. We find strength, wisdom, and direction for every area of our lives.
But this doesn't happen by osmosis. It requires intentionality, discipline, and a heart that is hungry for God. It means:
Setting aside daily time to read and reflect on Scripture
Asking the Holy Spirit to illuminate the Word and make it alive in our hearts
Applying what we learn to our lives, not just accumulating head knowledge
Sharing what God reveals to us with others, for mutual edification and encouragement
A Charge for the Days Ahead
As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of these days, it's more important than ever that we are rooted and grounded in God's Word. We cannot afford to depend on others for our spiritual nourishment. We must learn to feast on the bread of life for ourselves.
So here's my charge to you this week:
Set aside time each day to read and meditate on Scripture. Start with just 10-15 minutes, and ask God to speak to you through His Word.
Begin to journal what you're learning and how God is applying it to your life. Write down verses that stand out to you, and pray over them.
Find a way to share what you're learning with someone else - a friend, a family member, or a small group. Encourage each other to go deeper in your personal walk with God.
Remember, beloved:
Your relationship with God is the most important thing you have.
The Word of God is living, active, and essential for your spiritual growth.
You are called and equipped to know God for yourself, not just through others.
May you taste and see the goodness of God as you feast on His Word this week!
Pursuing Him with you,
Jennifer