Religious Trappings

How do we escape? How can we possibly get out of our default mode when it comes to religion? In the past week I have talked to four people about this very thing, one of which was a preacher in another denomination. One of his questions was, "How can we escape the religious trappings of our various denominations?"

I know for some of us it seems like an old conversation now, but after this week I know it's still new to some. There a so many who profess Christ who are tired of "religion" and are ready in their hearts to get away from it, but can't find it within themselves to escape.

Comfort zones, years of poor teaching, and any number of other things hinder them from walking away from it all in favor of simply searching for Jesus. Isn't it strange that we are willing to be content with what we are used to no matter the cost, because, in my opinion, seeking Jesus alone just cost too much for us. We like the comfort of our rules oriented religion. So we simply sit and complain without having the guts to make a move in the right direction. I even had two college students tell me that they have lied to their parents about where they went to church for fear of their parents' reaction. How sad!!

I just want to offer up prayer for us. God help us to find you in our lives. Help us to focus on that which is important and seek you first in our lives. Help us have the right attitudes as we deal with one another.

What suggestions do you have about how to escape the religion and seek first Jesus?