As we read Joshua 22, we find 2 ½ tribes of Israel planning to live on the east side of Jordan. Their concern was that in years to come it might become disconnected from the main body of Israel. If only the average Christian had as much concern for his religion. This text speaks of zeal, loyalty, and obedience to God. It also asked question “Does your religion work for you?” One of the dictates of a healthy religion?
Healthy religion assumes a proper relationship with God. We are reminded that we are creation of the Almighty. We have a duty toward our Creator. None of us would exist without his efforts. Everything around us, every creature, every rock and stone, every drop of water is the result of what he has done. Once we have become believers in the saving power of Jesus Christ, we assume a new position in this universe as his child. We have a fellowship with the Heavenly Father. Whether or not it is a warm and close fellowship depends on our own devotion.
Healthy religion comprehends the essentials of spiritual life. There is a new understanding about eternal truth. Religion is not sufficient on its own. It must be practiced in the environment where we have stepped. It offers a new comprehension of the spiritual truths that the Bible teaches. Those truths are simple in context and expression. After a person as a born-again experience with Christ, he becomes a new creation, not just a new creature. That newness gives a better understanding of spiritual life. That life is spirit filled. We are not talking about theology anymore. We are talking about a new way of life.
Healthy religion ensures a new place for us in the future. Keep in mind that I’m not talking about religious practice. A true healthy Christian religion is an experience with God. It anoints us in this life for special blessings. It also gives us hope for the future because our investments are not in this worldly way of life but in a heavenly. It becomes something worthwhile passing on to others. Surely this means that adults go out of their way to teach and guide the younger generation into an experience with God to salvation and further blessings. Because of all of this we have a source for rejoicing for the present as well as the future. There may be some among us who are heavenly burdened and find it difficult to have a happy heart. Allow me to encourage you, especially after the model of Apostle Paul. He did not look at the circumstances around him. He looked at the master who was above the circumstances. He rejoiced because of his tight and close relationship with Christ that we all can have.
Let’s invest ourselves of ritual and customs. Instead of that, let us seek for a relationship with Jesus by accepting him as Savior with every intent to serve him to his power and his love. We cannot have a religion that is called Christianity alone. We must have a healthy experience with what religion is supposed to be about. Scripture says that we love him because he first loved us.
Christian Writer 