Religion vs. Relationship

Have you ever wondered why as human beings, we yearn to have meaningful relationships? What is it that causes us to be fascinated and drawn to people and particular beliefs or teachings? If you are like me who enjoys analyzing topics and trying to make sense of things, you may find this subject insightful.

Before I go further, I will disclose that personally, I cannot call myself a religious person. While I grew up and still am a part of a particular denomination, I choose to believe what I believe for myself (my own conviction through experiences). Also, I see people as they are - as part of God's creation and as other human beings, and not through religious lens.

If we consider carefully, we would realize that throughout history, there have been atrocious things done in the name of religion which I will not discuss or highlight here.  However, suffice to say, religion itself has never been a solution to the ills in this world. Oftentimes, religion has been a hindrance to understanding the true character of God and to uniting people of different classes, races and creeds.

So, what do I define religion as? Religion is mankind's search for God. Religion consists of rules, customs, ceremonies and practices, and has caused numerous divides among people worldwide. In fact, religion can confuse people. Some may even question the existence of God because of different religious beliefs, and the way religious people behave.

Therefore, I want to introduce you to a relationship - an experience with God. This relationship is God's search for fellowship with mankind. Relationship unites and is based on our interactions and personal experiences with the Creator that transcends the things that religion can do. A relationship with God causes us to no longer question His existence, and brings us closer to an understanding of who He really is, and the purpose for which we were created. 

God is Supreme and desires a relationship with all of mankind. However, He never forces Himself on us and therefore, does not take away our free will (choice). Instead, He waits patiently on us to ask Him for His help. Hence, the reason people, not understanding God's character may ask, "Where is God in all of this? If He is in control, why do so many bad things happen in the world?" With understanding God's character (that He is loving, merciful, gracious, compassionate, just, etc.), and experiencing life in this world, we also understand that both good and evil exist. However, the focus here is on the subject of religion versus relationship.

Any healthy relationship is one that is nurtured. Just as with any other relationship we have, closeness, trust and understanding is built through interactions and experiences. In the early stages of relationship building, communication is crucial in understanding a person's character and learning to trust their intentions. 

From the Garden of Eden, God's desire was to communicate with mankind (Genesis 3:8). Has God changed? Definitely not. His character and intentions for mankind remain the same - He wants to communicate with us. God communicates or interacts with us in different ways. Hence, scriptures were written to edify and enlighten us (2 Timothy 3:16-17). God communicates to believers in Christ through His Indwelling Spirit (John 10:27; John 14:26; John 16:13; Romans 8:9; Romans 8:26). Other ways God communicates with mankind are through our prayers (Jeremiah 33:3), through dreams (Genesis 37:5-7, 9; Genesis 41:1-7; Daniel 2:1, 29, 31), visions (Daniel 10:4-14; Acts 9:10-15; Acts 10:1-6; Acts 10:9-16; Revelation 1:9-11), through His Word (Isaiah 55:11; Romans 10:17; 2 Timothy 3:16-17), through others (Numbers 15:37-41; 2 Samuel 7:4-16; Acts 8:29-35; 2 Peter 1:21; Hebrews 1:1), and directly or audibly that we and/or others around us could hear (Genesis 3:8-19; 1 Samuel 3:4-14; Acts 9:3-6). 

In having a relationship with God, you and I are no longer at a place where we know of or about Him - our interactions and experiences have elevated us to a place of knowing Him (intimacy). That is the reason why relationship itself is superior to religion. God did not design religion, but relationships, and gave us an innate desire for them. As human beings, we crave relationships with others, no matter how unique our personalities are.

Another point that I will make is that a relationship with God is like no other we can experience in this life (with any human being or other creature). As our relationship with God grows and becomes more intimate, we are able to foster healthier and lasting relationships with others on Earth. Because our connection with Him grows stronger, we become more like Him - His virtues are reflected through us and His desires become ours. That is why we are able to have compassion for others and it becomes easier to  demonstrate what love really is (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). Also, it becomes easier for us to forgive others when we are wronged (Matthew 6:12; Colossians 3:13).

When we have a relationship with God and trust Him wholeheartedly, even when we lose loved ones through death, His presence comforts and love keeps us determined to never lose hope that healing will come. God also renews our strength as we wait on Him (Isaiah 40:31). We therefore learn to trust His purpose and plans, even when we may not understand them in moments when situations look grim. We understand that our Heavenly Father has our best interests at heart and holds our futures in His hands. So, there is no reason to fear.

Therefore, I invite you to take a moment to ponder which one you would rather have -  religion or a relationship. Which one do you seek or would you find more fulfilling? Do remember, God is seeking an intimate relationship with us, and intimacy is developed through trust, as we build personal connections and share experiences with Him.

By Ruth Ferguson