What Religion is

 Friday 07 January 2025

What Religion is 

Jas.1.27 - Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. 

Religion is a complex subject to define in a way that will be generally accepted. To some it's the humans way of relating to God and the universe. The best explanation of what religion is has proved to be difficult because of the complex nature of what it means to various people and their cultures. 

In the context of this devotional, we will limit ourselves to the biblical veiw of religion. One innate nature of religion is to promote and teach morality and good conducts among the people. You are to serve as illuminator to the darkness of the world.  To shine as the light of the world,  a city set on a hill that cannot  be hidden.  Matt 5:14-16. Whatever we define religion to mean, there's something more paramount that's is expected by God and man. 

The scripture in James 1:27 makes what is more important clear. That is, seeing religion from its functioning and duties in the society. What it does especially as regards its vulnerable members. Religion has become intrinsic in the nature and life of many if not all and in some quarters it has been seen to have done more harm than good, becoming the bane of the society.  A stigma not caused by religion itself but by it corrupt practitioners.

Religion is supposed to exemplify love and communality. It's supposed to influence and improve both its adherents and their community.  Many are so conscious of protecting traditions and style that they ignore love and care. 

Religion without love for one another is nothing but vanity-"For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another" 1John.3.11.

Isa.58.6 -7 "Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; When you see the naked, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from your own flesh?

Further Readings: Matt. 5:17-48; I John 3:11-24.

Prayers:

Lord,  help us to grow from distracting debates and arguments to practising and showing of love and care for the helpless and vulnerables. Give us grace to practice our religion in a way that it will make the world a better place for  all, and refine our souls for the hereafter.  I ask in Jesus Christ's name.  Amen