RELATIONISM
Previously we looked at Religionism, which is a socialistic behavior of appearing to be a religious person just for the sake that others might think more highly of us or at the very least think that we are closer to God than most others are.
Religionism is all about the traditions, the ceremonies, and the keeping of rituals that give the appearance of Godliness.
We must remember, there is a warning that speaks against this kind of behavior.
Those who have a form of godliness but deny its power. Have nothing to do with them. 2 Timothy 3:5
Paul wrote this letter warning Timothy about the trappings in Religionism of which he had previous firsthand knowledge.
Those who practice Religionism even have their own language, I call it “Christianease”.
When using Christianease, you must always remember to tell everyone just how blessed you are by often using the word “Blessed” in a statement or sentence.
“I’m Blessed”, “I’ve always been Blessed”, “I’m about to be Blessed”, “Are you Blessed today?”. Blessed, Blessed, Blessed. Use it even if feeling unblessed.
Another common word to be used in Christianease is “Amen!”
They try and pepper every 3rd or 4th sentence with an “Amen”. This will be a clear indicator to all those paying attention that you are truly a bonafide Religionist.
Today we want to look at its polar opposite, Relationism.
Relationism is as far as East to West from Objectivism which is Religionism.
Objectivism sees everything as an immaterial, insignificant object. No feelings allowed.
Relationism is all about the relationship, not the boasting or deeds.
Relationist look to connect, Religionist look to disconnect and separate.
We’ve all heard it said that God is Love. It’s true He is Love, the very essence of it.
Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 1 John 4:8
God is Love and Love is Relationship. Gods love takes many forms, but it is most evident in his relationships. Namely the one with us.
Relationism like Love could be explained as wanting the best for someone, and that's exactly what God intends for us.
God loves you simply because he loves you. You don’t have to work for his affection. You don’t have to set yourself straight before God can pour out his love over you.
God just absolutely loves you because you are you. And you are who he made.
It’s hard to get our minds around, but it is true. This is where the Relationism journey starts by understanding that God loves you.
If you do not have an assurance of God’s love, your Relationism journey will not last long.
Relationist realize that there is no greater relationship than the powerful love our heavenly Father has for us, His children.
His love can move all obstacles, restore every brokenness, forgive anything, heal all wounded hearts, transform any life, and set free those held in bondage by the deeds of the past.
So great is his love for you and me that he sent his only Son to die that we might be forgiven of all past sins and issues.
God is not an angry taskmaster who shows affection only when you succeed. He is a loving Father who will always love you no matter what.
Take time to receive the depth of his love for you today. Allow his love to heal you, transform you, free you, and lead you to the abundant life he has always longed to give.
Let’s focus on our relationship with God, and not the rituals of mankind.
Show God just how much you love and appreciate him.
This is a Thompson Truth
