Religion

What do you think of when you hear the word “religion”? Do you automatically think of different systems like Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, or Christianity?

They are all religious systems, but I’ve realized the heart of religion is much more. It is actually a world system. You have to do good to get good or do bad to get bad. Most people would probably agree with that statement. It is deceivingly simple, and that is why it can sneak into our lives without much attention. Unfortunately, religion and sonship cannot coexist.

As I wrote about sonship a little while back, I realized its stark contrast to religion.

Sonship is truly devoid of all religion and religious efforts. It feels restful and full of peace that passes all understanding. Sonship stands on something that Jesus already did for us, not on our own achievements. We get to rely on the work of Jesus to come through for us and allow us to experience the blessings and benefits of the kingdom realm.

Religion relies solely on arduous work and really earnest intentions.

You might pass the test…but you never really know. Religion says that you need to earn it. Yeah, you have Jesus, but you need to make sure you still do the right things to really be a son. From one perspective, it says that the blood didn’t actually cover it all for us. Frankly, religion is “anti-gospel.”

Even as I write about this “anti-gospel,” I can recognize areas of life where religion still operates. We are all on a journey toward experiencing sonship in the fullest, and there is no need to feel shame or guilt about the areas that are not there yet.

Let’s do this together and grow into our true identities as sons and daughters of the Most High God.

– Zach Leal