Nougat 4

Familiar with the phrase, ‘not all that glitters is gold’? Did you realize that it also applies to our faith? If not, check out today’s Holy Nougat

“They will look like they are religious but deny God’s power. Avoid people like this.” ‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬ ‭CEB‬‬

Religiosity

Some would say it is a religious demon. It could be. Others insist it’s merely pride and power. Maybe. What is for sure is that such persons look a lot like you and me, they don’t have a specific look that reveals their identity to others. They can be found in the traditional churches, in store front churches, among charismatic churches, and even among believers who don’t use ‘church’ as their fellowship designation.

Religiosity, in this instance, refers to the affectation of spirituality or excessive spiritual behavior, which is not reflective of deep faith. In part, I am reminded of the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law, who generally said and did the right thing in public. When placed under the Light of Truth, their folly was revealed. So much so that Jesus became a personal problem, and a stumbling block because they feared the unmasking. Ironically, that which they feared was the reality as they moved from ritualistic service to plotting Jesus’ death.

Since Jesus has already been crucified and has defied death by the power of the resurrection, we might assume that those who practice religiosity. But they are still present among us, and not all are idolaters. There are also the Fools of Psalm 53:1. And because they don’t publicly deny God’s existence, many will follow their lead (unintentionally at first).

It is so easy to get caught up in the lies, so we must guard against that. Firstly, we repent of previous sins. Then we invite God’s Spirit to transform our hearts and spirits. Although it may take some time, it is critical that Jesus’ blood washes over the calcified points of our hearts. Whether it’s fear, disappointment, disturbing news, or some other negative things that began to turning hearts to stone, Christ can restore us if we ask.

Having had our hearts restored, we will find it easier to revive our faith and prayer life. Daily meditation of scriptures, inviting God’s revelation of same, spending time with other believers in worship and prayer are crucial. We can also get help with our meditation and reflection by subscribing to online devotionals like YouVersion

(https://www.bible.com/app ), Back to the Bible, Encounter

(https://encounteringpeace.com/ )

or My Scriptural Journey (http://www.myscriptualjourney.com/ ). There are many others. And if we prefer print devotionals, there’s Our Daily Bread, the Moravian Watchword, Word for You Today to name a few. If necessary, ask God’s direction to the one for you.

My siblings and friends in Christ, we remain alert, connected and aligned with Jesus to avoid religiosity.

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May all we seek be found in Christ