The word religion is nothing more than a word to describe a set of beliefs or methods of worship. The enemy has tried to corrupt this word to make it stale, impersonal, institutionalized, programmed and mechanical. Many have pursued religion with passion believing that they will find fulfillment, hope, meaning, relevancy, value, strength and an unending joy. The pursuit of religion often leaves these weary souls discouraged and hopeless. This is because religion has always and should always only be an outflowing of people connected to God's heart. I believe satan has made an all out attack on this word and its meaning to distract us from the heart of God and, thus, rob us of close connection with Him.
In secular terms, religion is a word to describe the path to a higher power or a path to God. We know nothing could be further from the truth. Jesus is the path to God. It is only by complete submission and surrender to Him that we can discover salvation, hope, and true life. Christians must be clear that the word religion is and should only be an outgrowth of an inner communion with God. Religion flows from a heart connected with God.
I invite you not to encounter religion, not to encounter debates, not to encounter just religious practices, but to encounter the very heart of God. Your heart was made to do so.