“I’m not religious, I’m spiritual.”

“I’m not religious, I’m spiritual.”. It’s a common phrase I hear often. In fact, it’s one I’ve used myself.

The Cambridge Dictionary’s definition of religion is “the belief in and worship of a god or gods, or any such system of belief and worship.” I have to admit I’ve had a different (and wrong) interpretation, that being religion is a bunch of man made rules. My bad.

The Cambridge definition of spiritual is “relating to deep feelings and beliefs, especially religious beliefs.” Well, we’re back to religion.

Ok, that being clarified, where does that leave me with when it comes to belief and worship of god or gods? There’s a lot of beliefs out there to pick from. Which one is really the truth? To that I would say which one is unlike all the rest?

When I look at all the different religions out there, they all seem to center around one thing. I have to somehow earn my way to heaven, nirvana, paradise, utopia, eternal state of bliss, whatever. That’s a pretty heavy load to bear and it sure gets fuzzy on the requirements. Not sure if I can pull it off.

Ok then. Is there some belief system that addresses this? (yes, that was a set up question) I’m glad you asked. Fact is I can’t earn my way to much of anything, let alone nirvana, heaven – when I really look at myself. I’m not quite the stellar legend in my own mind I want to think I am. In other words, I’m a sinner: “One that has voluntarily violated the divine law; a moral agent who has voluntarily disobeyed any divine precept, or neglected any known duty.’ (Webster’s 1828 Dictionary). And God, being perfect and good in every way, cannot tolerate sin. So what’s a guy to do?

Answer: Look at Jesus. Completely different approach that addresses my dilemma. I don’t have to strive to do anything to reach perfection because I simply can’t. Jesus made that connection to perfection and therefore connection to God for me. There has to be a penalty to pay for my sinful self and Jesus did that by dying on the cross. He did it as a means to take my place for not being able to muster the ability to reach perfection. And what’s incredible about it, that means of connection is freely given to me – I just have to accept it. That’s called Salvation.

How do we receive salvation? We are saved by faith. First, we must hear the gospel—the good news of Jesus’ death and resurrection (Ephesians 1:13). Then, we must believe—fully trust the Lord Jesus (Romans 1:16). This involves repentance, a changing of mind about sin and Christ (Acts 3:19), and calling on the name of the Lord (Romans 10:9-10, 13).

And this is the real deal. The only religion that’s not based on “I do” but “It’s done”. Very, very cool.