My Need

 

j0442982

What do you think of this statement?

"Often, it is so much easier to do something for God then to simply trust in God."

It’s a point that I once made in a sermon a few years ago and it stirred in my heart once again tonight. Walking with Jesus for 40 plus years I know how to do the “Christian Thing”. It’s like doing the hustle (sorry about the disco reference) but without the strange dance moves. But it is a hustle…it presents the “form” or religion thing and not the relational thing. To journey with God has nothing to do with our natural ability (or lack thereof), it doesn’t matter what we bring to the table or what gifts we possess.

What I need to realize is the fact that it isn’t the strength of my character, my experience or my wonderful grip of the scriptures that wins God over. It was simply my need…the need to have Him enter my life. We don’t obey rules and commandments to get us closer to the Father. Like Jesus, we obey and follow because we are already close to Him. Father God knows that on this journey, maturity comes, discipline comes and “right doing” will come. The journey with God imbeds us in a relationship that will change us and benefit the world around us.

“Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their afflictions, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.” James 1:27

“By the word religion I have seen the lunacy of fanatics of every denomination be called the will of god. Holiness is in right action, and courage on behalf of those who cannot defend themselves, and goodness.” - Kingdom of Heaven

Rules are good (most of them) we need right action; (anyone with kids knows this!) Following the Ten Commandments is a very good thing. Sacraments are good life practices. They can be the bridge, the step, and the one thing that awakes us to our need for more of Him. But we need to remember… just following rules and commandments, observing sacraments, are no guarantee of intimacy with the Father.

As I move away from a work list mentality, (and funny dance moves) I realize that I am here for a purpose higher and that like Jesus…I can go around doing good…because I belong to the Father.

That’s what I need…I need to be with Him.

What about you? Do you feel you have to earn your way into His heart?

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Comments

Cindy Holman said…
I think that CAN be the temptation for all of us.  I try to relax and just let Him love me - just like I know my own children felt that love from me - no matter what they did for me - it just WAS.  
bill (cycleguy) said…
Two things Jay. First, yes, I agree with that statement.  I ought to know.  I was the poster boy for it.  Second, I no longer feel like I have to earn my way into His heart.  When I was set free I found that out and it  became a huge revelation and life-changing truth.  Good thoughts my friend.
Jay Cookingham said…
I'm so glad that you have experience the freedom that comes with knowing who you are in Him Bill...that is awesome! Bless you bro'
Jay Cookingham said…
Relax and let the love pour in...good insight Cindy!
Gary said…
Jay, in a hurry to get on with the date insisted on my my 7-yr old cowgirl friend.  But had to tell you that I sent your pivotal piece on in two devotional parts to my grandson with whom I will meet in the morning for "devotionals".  Way beyond the rules, it's The Walk.  Took too many years to learn it and for too many years and observing how few have embraced Jesus and have, instead, favored His rules, His friends, His church (services).
jasonS said…
This struggle seems to present itself over and over, but He is so good to show us. Love this statement: "Like Jesus, we obey and follow because we are already close to Him." Great reminder. Thanks Jay!
Jay Cookingham said…
Love the fact that He continues to love us although we struggle in loving Him...Bless ya Jason!
Jay Cookingham said…
WOW...I'm honored Gary...I hope it's a blessing to you both!
Eddy Damas said…
Not so much earn my way into Christ's heart, just abiding there is enough of a challenge for me...I find that while I can always rest comfortably there, much sooner am I pulled back into the uncomfortable reality of this world.
Jay Cookingham said…
The pull is strong bro'...that's for sure. As we dive deeper into His heart and trust in His view of us, I believe we grow more resistant to that pull. Thanks for sharing bro'

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