God wants us to sincerely follow him with a sincere heart. He doesn’t want us to substitute a heartfelt relationship with outward forms of religions. It is important to obey God with a pure heart that loves and honors God. Having faith and love from the heart are also primary elements in our relationship with God. We can attend church, read the bible, pray, and not have a sincere heart devoted to God.
In Mark 7:6 – and he said to them, well did Isaiah prophesy of you, hypocrites, as it is written, This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me;
The Pharisees and the teachers’ of the law were guilty of legalism. Legalist seems to honor God with their words. However, their heart is far from God. People who live by legalism live right on the outside, but have no real love for God. It has to do with a person’s motives for following God. Legalism is usually man-made rules that have nothing to do with God’s original commands.
By God’s grace, we are saved by faith in Christ and not our efforts. Although, Christians should still follow the instructions, disciplines, and duties of Christ’s law and God’s word. We show our faithfulness to Christ by obeying his Word.
Do you live by legalism or by pure love and devotion to God?
Are there areas in your life that may lean onto the legalism of religion?
Do you follow man-made laws or God’s law?
Dear Heavenly Father,
I pray that we will follow you with our whole heart, mind, and soul. I pray that we will seek your word on how we should live for you. I pray that we will discern between man and you. I thank you for your love and care for each of us.
In Jesus Name
Amen
