Religion

 ‭James 1:27 NLT‬
Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.

https://bible.com/bible/116/jas.1.27.NLT

Christians sometimes say that Christianity is a relationship with God, not a religion. I know what they mean, that Christianity isn't manmade, like every other religion. Yet James insists there's a kind of religion that God accepts.

There's a twofold aspect to divine religion. Firstly, we're to look out for people in need. Wishing people well without practically helping them doesn't cut it in the Kingdom of God.

Secondly, we're not to be corrupted by the world. 'Blessed are the pure in heart', stated Jesus, 'for they shall see God'. We need God to purify our hearts and to continue sanctifying us, until He calls us home.

We can't have one without the other. It's not enough to feed the homeless if we're lustful. It's not enough to be pious if we don't practically help people.

'Heavenly Father, please help us to be religious in the best possible sense of the word. May we look out for the needy and be pure in heart. For the glory of Jesus we pray, amen'

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