Pastor Baker's Blog

Entry for October 26, 2006

Daily Reading: Isaiah chapters 29 thru 32

Key Verses: 29:13

What is the difference between religion and relationship. It is the difference between "I have to" and "I want to." Religion is a set of man-made rules, regulations and rituals. Relationship is a personal cultivation of love and comradery. Religion is focused on outward appearances, while relationship is focused on inward transformation. The ones we most admire we strive to be like. If we most admire the preacher, the worship leader, a friend, or our boss, we will strive to dress like them, speak like them and act like them. The one we should most admire is Jesus Christ. Does our character reflect our relationship with Christ? It does. Whether we are near to Him or far, our actions speak of our relationship.

Strong relationships lead to committment and dedication. It leads to common interests and goals. Jesus' main goal was reflected in his command to the disciples (Matthew 28:19). Our goals drive our decisions. Do your decisions reflect the kingdom or the world?

2006-10-26 16:02:44 GMT

Comments (1 total)

Author:Anonymous

I recently heard an interview with Dr. Gary Smalley on Daystar. Dr. Smalley was explaining how he finally understood what it meant to hide the Word of God in your heart. He said he began to practice this principle and it truly has began to transform his way of thinking. I have been unknowingly doing the same thing. I have many issues with dealing with others that stem from my lack of trust. But because of my growing knowledge of God's Word, the Spirit literally brings to mind Scripture when I am confronted with situations. I think the place this has been a blessing the most is in my marriage. Scripture has helped me redefine my concepts of marriage (which were purely worldly) and it has been a blessing to my family. I can honestly say that as I grow in my relationship with Christ my decisions are more kingdom and less worldly. However, I am still a work in progress.
--Aundrea Baker
<mailto:abaker@thewaybiblefellowship.org>

2006-10-26 16:10:41 GMT

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		Pastor Baker's Daily Devotional

		Entry for October 26, 2006 Daily Reading: Isaiah chapters 29 thru 32 Key Verses: 29:13 What is the difference between religion and relationship. It is the difference between "I have to" and "I want to." Religion is a set of man-made rules, regulations and rituals. Relationship is a personal cultivation of love and comradery. Religion is focused on outward appearances, while relationship is focused on inward transformation. The ones we most admire we strive to be like. If we most admire the preacher, the worship leader, a friend, or our boss, we will strive to dress like them, speak like them and act like them. The one we should most admire is Jesus Christ. Does our character reflect our relationship with Christ? It does. Whether we are near to Him or far, our actions speak of our relationship. Strong relationships lead to committment and dedication. It leads to common interests and goals. Jesus' main goal was reflected in his command to the disciples (Matthew 28:19). Our goals drive our decisions. Do your decisions reflect the kingdom or the world? 2006-10-26 16:02:44 GMT Comments (1 total) Author:Anonymous I recently heard an interview with Dr. Gary Smalley on Daystar. Dr. Smalley was explaining how he finally understood what it meant to hide the Word of God in your heart. He said he began to practice this principle and it truly has began to transform his way of thinking. I have been unknowingly doing the same thing. I have many issues with dealing with others that stem from my lack of trust. But because of my growing knowledge of God's Word, the Spirit literally brings to mind Scripture when I am confronted with situations. I think the place this has been a blessing the most is in my marriage. Scripture has helped me redefine my concepts of marriage (which were purely worldly) and it has been a blessing to my family. I can honestly say that as I grow in my relationship with Christ my decisions are more kingdom and less worldly. However, I am still a work in progress. --Aundrea Baker <mailto:abaker@thewaybiblefellowship.org> 2006-10-26 16:10:41 GMT Site Home