Religion Versus Relationship

It took a while for the thought to finally solidify, but since it has, it's going to be preached--starting this Sunday.  I know it may not be wise putting this out there before I preach it, but I'm going to do it anyway because I finally have a defeater for one of the most annoying sayings I have come across.  The meme below says it all:

I've always said that both of these examples are bogus.  But I've had a hard time conveying why the final thought is bogus. 

Can't we find God out in nature?

Can't we be with God while we are (insert whatever activity you like here)?

And the answer is: of course you can find God out in nature.  And of course, you can be with God while you are doing whatever activity you choose.  But, the question is: Is this a real relationship?

Here is the answer, not in a point by point philosophical discourse, but in the form of an experiment--an experiment I dare anyone to try.

The next time there is an important family date: an anniversary; a birthday; etc. walk up to the person whose day is celebrated, look them right in the eye and say, "You know, hon, tomorrow is our anniversary, so I've decided to spend the whole day fishing.  Don't worry, though, the entire time I'm out there, I will be thinking of you."

Not going to go over so well, will it.

Why?  Because you aren't really thinking of the other person.  You are thinking about yourself.

A real relationship makes demands on you.

It costs you time.

It costs you money.

It costs you thinking outside of getting what you want and giving adoration and care to someone else.

It costs you because you allow yourself to be vulnerable and changed by the person with whom you are in a relationship.  Because you care, you change to accommodate the other person, and you become different.  And the only way you can know what changes to make is to listen to the other person and find out what brings them joy.

A real relationship with God means:

1. You take time out for God.
2. You give money to God.
3. You adore and praise God.
4. You listen to God when He speaks.

All four of those things take place in worship. 

1. We carve out a sacred time for God.
2. We offer our tithes and offerings to God.
3. We adore and praise God through song and response.
4. We listen to God's Word as we read the Bible, pray, and listen to sermons.

Religion is a guy sitting in church thinking about fishing.
A superficial relationship is a guy fishing thinking about God.
A real, transformational relationship is a person worshiping God with heart, soul, mind and strength and raising his or her voice in glorious praise.