Worthless Tradition

It’s Resurrection Sunday of 2025.

I’m feeling extra reflective this morning…

A Journey of Faith

Decades have passed since I accepted Jesus. Looking back on our relationship, I can see how faithful God has been. He met me where I was—not at the level of being perfect, but on the path to growth.

In those early years, I did what many do: I attended church weekly. I owned a Bible, but I did not truly understand or study it on my own. Instead, I was focused on my world. Grades mattered. I worried about how my hair looked. Would I make the volleyball team?

Every time I prayed, it was often a list of requests: “Dear God, please help me ______(fill in the blank).” I rarely thought about how I could contribute to His plans. To me, God felt more like a genie in a bottle, someone I approached to get what I wanted.

I read and memorized Scripture, but understanding eluded me. I knew when to stand and sit during services. I picked up the songs and learned how to behave in church. Ultimately, it was just an act.

Accepting Jesus was about avoiding Hell, not about embracing a transformative relationship that could lead to a deeply abundant life with God.

The Struggle Within

As I grew older, I encountered emotional and mental struggles. Back then, I didn't understand. Now, I see the lies that were embedded in my belief system. My daily intake of worldly standards planted doubts and insecurities.

I can see how these lies shaped my expectations and countered my true beliefs. So today, I recommit myself to God—Father, Jesus, and Holy Spirit. I reestablish God as my First Love.

It’s humbling to ask the Holy Spirit to reveal where I may have become lukewarm or fell back into old, mechanical religious habits. Jesus spoke clearly against empty traditions, as stated in Matthew 15:9, where He called them “worthless tradition taught by men.” He also reminded us that “as you believe, it’s done to you” (Matthew 8:13).

Transformation Through Faith

Transitioning from sight to faith is a timeless struggle. It’s about staying present and flowing with the Holy Spirit. I realize now that I missed the Abundant Life in Christ because I hadn’t really followed the instruction given to me. Instead, I focused on behavior modification, molding my outward appearance while my inner self remained unchanged.

When I asked the Holy Spirit why this was, the answer was clear: I had not yet “de-conformed” from the pattern of the world (Romans 12:2). I was on a steady mental diet of worldly influences—music, television, movies, books, and fashion.

Looking back, it’s amusing. It’s like wanting to lose weight without changing your eating or exercise habits. True change requires a change of heart, rooted in our love for God and our relationship with Him, rather than just temporary behavioral changes to impress others.

Embracing a New Path

Today marks a new beginning for me. I commit to developing my relationship with God rather than focusing on mere rituals. I will seek understanding in His Word and allow it to guide my life. This journey will not be about adhering to societal standards but rather embracing God's standards.

Prayer:

“Thank you, God, for Your infinite patience and love for us! Thank you for another opportunity today to get to know You, follow You, and work with You as You work with me and through me!”

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