One
of the strongest arguments for being part of a local church is accountability.
When we are accountable to “one another” as we see repeated in scripture it
keeps us in a healthy place. Just as a well-tended garden is green and lush
with fragrant beauty and abundant fruit, so is the Believer, the Disciple of
Jesus when cared for by a loving group of fellow Believers.
The
Lone Ranger Christian is one ruled by a religious spirit. It is difficult to correct
someone controlled by a religious spirit. They have all the answers. They can
quote book-chapter-verse on many subjects. It is difficult for these to be
“real” with other Believers. It’s not that they are involved in overt sin. But
the priority is to present a front of spiritual maturity.
Here’s
a couple of questions to ask yourself to determine the level, if any, of a
religious spirit that might be at work in your life:
1.
When you hear a message from scripture do you immediately think who needs to
hear it?
2.
If someone shares a problem with you do you always quote scripture instead of
actually listening and feeling concerned for them?
3.
Do you pray repetitious prayers of repentance for “everyone”, as opposed to
personal repentance?
4.
Do you attempt to justify any of your behavior by blaming evil spirits instead
of personal accountability?
James
1:26 (KJV) If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his
tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.
The
problem with deception is the fact that you are deceived. That is the reason we
need the Body. The body knows when a part of it is not functioning properly. It
experiences pain and rallies resources to bring healing to the ailing member
and restore health to the whole Body. A religious spirit can be a true
thrombosis to the Body and block the natural flow of God’s plan and purpose for
His people.
Pray
for the Lord to open YOUR eyes to the truth concerning what motivates you to
what you do for the Lord. Ask Him to fill you with love for others. A religious
spirit cannot remain in a heart surrendered to God.
1 comment:
Really good. And I can think of a few people that need to read it. Lol Just kidding.
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