Live By Faith, Not by Religion

Reverend Leo H. McCrary II

Going to the church building is simply not enough. Do you have faith? What are you works?

Today’s devotional reading: Jeremiah 7:1-7

Don’t count mechanical acts as a show of faith. Many believers believe that there is a list of things that one must do as a show of faith. For example: going to church, being baptized, praying in the morning, praying at night, and praying before one eats. Sure, all of these acts are wonderful to do, but God desires those things to be done from a sincere desire.

God loved Abel’s offering because Abel gave from his heart, whereas Cain gave because he thought it was required. One who does something because they think they have to do it, don’t often put forth their best effort. Consider today the effort that is put forth in the work place by those who don’t love to be there. The one who does not love their work often puts forth a half-hearted effort.

The Lord does not want you to be putting forth a half-hearted effort in your works. Many are putting forth a half-hearted effort in their prayer life, in their worship, and in their charity, which is not healthy for anyone. A tree that receives little water produces little to no fruit. Mechanical religion is why so many of aren’t truly happy in our soul.

If you find yourself moving mechanically in your work, may I suggest you find a reason to smile? Take a moment to recognize just how God loves you, and how wonderful His blessings are. Then move in that feeling – it will make a world of a difference.