It’s a fact. Millions of Christians all over the United States are having to carry on their relationship with God without the benefit of their local church. The ability to go to a building and be surrounded with other like minded people has been stripped away quite unceremoniously. No cushioned seats, upbeat music, flashing lights, fog machines and positive non confrontational sermons. It’s just the basic christian and his or her Bible. Sure there are online services, complete with all of the familiar accouterments. However, the average view time online is less then three minutes. So what of it?
I believe the spiritual rubber has met the proverbial road.
Jesus Himself enjoyed large crowds that followed Him from place to place. Each person getting what they needed from the activity. When he confronted them with a few basic facts, they all totally abandoned Him as recorded in John 6:66. Many of these disciples were willing to trade one religion for another, but missed the point when asked to enter a relationship.
The current situation is a precarious one. There are many people dying around the world and around the corner. I am not an old man, but I have never imagined a time where Americans would not be allowed out of their homes or to go to work. A time when the largest economy in the entire world would be shut off almost completely. In times as extraordinary as these it is natural to ask questions. What is God in His sovereignty meaning to tell us through these events. Some are asking for a revival of religion in America. I am beginning to believe that dependence on religion is what led us to this point. God in His amazing grace is giving His children an opportunity to draw closer to Himself and enjoy the fellowship and protection that a relationship with Him can bring. No flashing lights, professional sound system, dynamic speaker, multi-million dollar facility. Just you and Him, alone, in your living room.
What will we do with God, without the normal religious distractions?
We might be able to get away with faking it with our Pastor, our church friends, but it’s impossible to fake it with God. This moment is a complete confrontation. God is confronting His disciples. Stripping away every scent of religion, what will you do now? I believe God is advocating for a revival of relationship and not religion.
Saul was a Hebrew of Hebrews. In Philippians chapter 4:4, he lets the church know that he was supremely qualified in the flesh. If anyone could play the religion game it was Saul. But he, now named Paul, looking back, considered it all garbage, without any real power. He had gained relationship and now religion seemed like utter garbage to him!
God, I pray for revival in this country and the world. Not a revival of religion, but a revival of relationship. Make yourself so real to your church that it is as if you are physically walking among us. Help us to see that religion is powerless but relationship is where we can know you in the power of the resurrection. (Philippians 3:10)
Please don’t send us a revival of religion. Send us a revival of power, of relationship.
Send Comments to the Author : Paul@CTFellowship.com