Faith and Religion: A Relationship Over Ritual
- Dr. Michael Stallings
- Sep 1
- 2 min read
“These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” (Matthew 15:8)
“The righteous will live by faith.” (Romans 1:17)
Religion can go through the motions, but faith walks with God. One may know the rules; the other knows the Redeemer. Jesus didn’t die to make people religious—He died to bring people into relationship with the living God. Outward performance without inward devotion leaves the heart empty, but faith brings us near to God Himself.
When faith is missing, religion becomes hollow. It may be filled with rituals, traditions, and appearances, yet it lacks life. True Christianity is not about checking boxes or maintaining an image—it is about knowing Christ personally. He gave everything to restore you, not so you could perform for Him, but so you could walk with Him. When the cross becomes more than a symbol, and Christ more than an idea, faith transforms religion into relationship.
The theological tenant at play is justification by faith. The gospel declares that we are made right with God not by works, rituals, or law-keeping, but through trusting Christ. The righteous live by faith because their standing before God rests on His grace, not their effort. This frees us from the burden of empty performance and calls us into joyful obedience. Faith does not discard action—it transforms it. What once was duty becomes delight, and what once was ritual becomes relationship.
When faith is real, it changes how we live. Not from fear, but from love. Not out of obligation, but out of joy in God’s presence. Religion may teach about God, but faith walks with Him daily. It listens to His voice, leans on His promises, and believes even when it cannot see. Don’t settle for religious activity—pursue the living Christ. Real faith is not lifeless routine; it is a living relationship.
Reflection:
Where in my walk with God have I slipped into routine instead of genuine relationship?
How can I express real faith this week—in my words, decisions, and love for others?
Prayer: A Prayer for Genuine Faith Over Empty Religion
Father,I don’t want to just go through the motions. I want to know You—to trust You, follow You, and walk with You in real faith. Strip away anything in me that is only ritual or habit. Give me a heart that beats for You, not just a life that looks religious. I believe, Lord. Help me walk by faith. In Jesus’ name,Amen.
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