Day 1
Religion.
Yes, I know… it’s probably not a word we hear much in church. Maybe because we don’t think of it as something good. But let me tell you: this devotional came to me as a word from God, at a time when my service was replacing my relationship with Him.
I was doing a lot for God… but I wasn’t spending time with Him.
As a pastor’s child—and like many of us—my weekends were full of meetings, services, and events. Sundays ended with exhaustion… and a heart feeling far from God.
Has that ever happened to you?
These five days are a journey back. Back to where it all began.
Back to the fire.
Back to the secret place.
Back to your first love.
The key question:
Am I living a religion… or a relationship with God?
God has always been relational. From the beginning, He revealed Himself to Moses:
"I am the God of your father—the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob." (Exodus 3:6)
He gave Moses a huge mission—to free Israel from Egypt—but first, He gave presence:
"I will be with you." (Exodus 3:12)
"I AM WHO I AM." (Exodus 3:14)
God is intentional. Intentional in revealing Himself. In His commands. His promises. His love.
In the desert, God showed Israel how to live, what pleased Him, and how to walk with Him. He gave laws, sacrifices, feasts, and rules—to teach His people how to draw near, and be holy as He is holy.
But over time, the people focused on the rules… and neglected the heart.
They performed the sacrifices but ignored obedience.
They celebrated the feast but ignored the Host.
They kept the law but didn’t know the Lawgiver.
That… is religion.
Living by duty. Moving in spiritual autopilot. A cold heart.
Maybe you’re doing things for God, but haven’t spoken to Him in a long time. Present in church… absent in secret. Something feels off… yet you keep running on autopilot.
Religion makes you function. Relationship makes you live.
Religion demands action. Relationship produces love.
Religion keeps you busy. Relationship keeps you on fire.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of “doing for God” and lose His heart.
But today, the Spirit calls you back. Not to stop serving… but to serve from His Presence. Not to do less… but to love more.
This isn’t empty faith. This is a full life.
Are you living a religion… or a relationship with God?
Let’s pray:
Lord, I don’t want to keep running without Your Presence. Today, I start this journey back to Your heart. Take me back to intimacy, to Your voice. May this not be just another devotional… but the beginning of a real, life-changing relationship with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Ready to go deeper? Don’t miss Day 2: “Power vs. Presence” – because it’s not just what God can do… it’s who He is!
Scripture
Reflection Questions
In what ways have I been serving or “doing for God” without actually spending time in His Presence?
What practical steps can I take this week to shift from religious duty into a deeper, personal relationship with God?
