I don’t go to church, but I consider myself religious.
And I don’t often write about religion, but today I will.
It’s important to me—really, it is. I’ve always said, tongue-in-cheek, why wouldn’t I want a relationship with the Creator?
Why wouldn’t I want to know God?
And then I’d lean back, readjust my seat, and wonder:
Why wouldn’t anyone want to know God?
To me, it’s only human to wonder who’s behind all of this. It’s our right. It’s our uniquely human gift.
Growing up, you go to school and hear about the Big Bang theory, but call me skeptical—I believe the world and universe are too complex for everything to have happened by accident. I mean, really, how could this be an accident? If it is, it’s one heck of a lucky one. And even more so, how did all the matter form?
This is not to say science and religion cannot coexist, it should. But it is to say that there is something more.
So lately, with a curious mind, I’ve made a habit of reading the Bible to understand more and form my own thoughts on the stories I’ve been hearing for decades.
I tend to think religion, much like politics, is a giant game of telephone—someone says something, and it gets misinterpreted in ways only humans can misinterpret.
So, I started reading the source material—the Bible—to get my own thoughts. After much reading and reflecting, here’s my stance in a nutshell:
Real Christianity is much harder than you think.
Here’s what I mean.
What Being a Christian Means
Being a Christian isn’t about throwing on your nicest shoes and going to church on Sunday. Being a Christian is all in the name itself—it’s about being Christ-like. And Christ… well, he wasn’t a normal dude. Far from it.
Christ was above human desires.
You know when someone cuts you off in traffic, and maybe—just maybe—you hope they drive off a bridge?
Yeah… that’s not very Christian.
Or how you might enjoy going to the fair just to people-watch judge others for laughs.
Not exactly Christian.
Or maybe you have a super eager, super annoying boss that makes you roll your eyes at the thought alone—not very Christ-like.
Or maybe you see a pretty girl, and your eyes linger a few seconds too long.
Not exactly Christ-like.
Christ was above all that and set an example for us to follow… and then was tortured for it. At the core of his example, I see someone living life through a lens of love and fighting—and winning—the battle over our innate human desires. To me, that’s what being a Christian means. It means denying the impulses we all have and living in love. And it’s hard… really hard. After all, we were designed to do pretty much everything but that.
I tend to think we humans are deeply flawed, deeply emotional creatures of comfort. We want to protect ourselves, and the way we do that is by relying on our ego. Left unchecked, our egos will go out of their way to put us first, to protect us at any cost, and to justify every bad behavior we have. It’s our wingman that’s wingin’ 24/7, 365.
And this is something I struggle to overcome.
You’ve read my writing and sensed my snark. The scary part is that’s me holding back.
But if I’m reading the Bible and trying to live the lessons, that’s something I’ll inevitably have to overcome.
It’s also something I will probably struggle with for the rest of my life.
But it’s ok – that’s kind of the deal we get. Really, that’s the point of religion. Denying yourself, living for God, and doing the best you can.
So, to come full circle, what does being a Christian mean?
It means opening your hand instead of balling your fist.
It means holding back judgment when it’s easier to judge.
It means forgiving your enemies and turning the other cheek when all you want is justice.
It means helping people who can’t help themselves, even when you don’t get thanked for it.
It means denying yourself and living for God.
It means having faith, like a mustard seed, knowing it will grow into a tree.
It means acting in love when life suggests you want to do anything but.
It means building a relationship with God and putting God first when we want to put ourselves first.
And it means surrendering your human desires and responding with love when it’s so easy to hate.
All of this is something I struggle with.
But despite the challenges, I actually find being a Christian rewarding. It encourages me to live more in the ways the Bible suggests, which, to me, promotes empathy. And wouldn’t a more empathetic world be nice?
I’m not done reading the Bible, and I’m sure the more I read it, the more thoughts I’ll have. Some will likely contradict what I’ve written here.
But this is my start, and writing this helps me understand more than anything else.
I think religion is something you should explore for yourself. But if this helps, I hope it does.
Have a great day, and God bless.
Please like, comment, share and tell me what you think. What am I missing? What does it mean to you?
You rightly pointed out that thinking about the creator is only available to us. Then why not use it.
Out fight is the fight between mind and intellect.
We want to tighten our fist – this is mind. This is an overreaction.
When we evaluate and think conciously and open arms for greater good – this is intellect.
Yes the Christ was a self realised soul.
It is not easy what he could do. But even trying to follow the path laid down by those great teachers certainly helps in correcting our occasional abberations and achieve mental peace.
I also think that believing in science should necessarily diminish faith in a creator.
Our understanding of the creation is only improving with new discoveries.But that does not mean that creator is absent.
Of course, I def think science and religion coexist – thanks so much for reading!!
A little typing mistake here by me “I also think that believing in science should necessarily diminish faith in a creator.” I mean “not diminish”. Sorry for it.
Thanks again.
Totally all good I got what you meant!
Yes, I have always thought I had to be crazy for thinking there was a connection hahaa
As a daughter of an elder/minister, I agree with you. I’ve read the Bible many times throughout my life because I had to.
But . . . in my adult years, I have learned to not only read the Bible, but to study it–to do an exegesis of it. And the older I get, the more I understand a lot of what I’ve missed while I was younger.
This . . . “Being a Christian isn’t about throwing on your nicest shoes and going to church on Sunday. Being a Christian is all in the name itself—it’s about being Christ-like. And Christ… well, he wasn’t a normal dude. Far from it.
Christ was above human desires.” and so many other things you’ve mentioned made me nod my head in agreement and smile.
The human way, even when we’re not conscious of it, is to allow the ego to lead. We will be striving to be our best selves every day until we die.
Thank you for sharing this post, Tony.
Thank you so much for reading and reading all my other posts, I appreciate you. And wow! I feel the same way!
You’re most welcome. 🙏🏾💙
I agree with what you said. My grand parents were die hard Christians.
Thank you so much for reading!
I love this! So honest, so soul seeking, so beautiful. It sounds to me as if you’re well on your way to where you’d like to be. If we can invite our little ego selves to step aside and make room for the soul to step in, we’re there—at least for a minute! It’s a lifelong journey, but the reward is a loving, kind, warm, and compassionate heart. I’m in your corner cheering you on—one step at a time!
I appreciate this and you Julia!
Great post. I definitely agree with your view versus some of what I see and hear out in the real world. I tend to view being a Christian as whatever thought or action I might take, Christ would do the opposite. I want to judge, he would offer a helping hand. I want ball my hand in fist, he would give kindness and forgiveness. Ugh, a hard act to follow, but thank you so much for the reminder.
No problem, I agree the hardest act to follow
Even as I write under the aegis of Milton and Dante via a dark fantasy filter, I highly admire your definition of Jesus. I agree, he is above the base natural concerns of this human condition. I feel for many people, many lazy people, bending to the desires is called a “right.” They lean into the desire instead of leaning into the harder work of transcending them–a process that takes time, patience, and faith.
And like all things that take time patienence and faith, the reward is worth the steuggke
I hope you are not in the direction of the expected storm surge. Hopefully you are on the move if that is the case.
I believe your interpretation of being a Christian is on point. Basically, as you mentioned, it’s to be Christ-like, period. Of course, we are not Christ. However, he gave us plenty of examples to follow and live by, which included his relationship with God, his Father. Which to me, is more important than the title of being a Christian. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and discoveries.☺️🙏🏽
Thank you so much for reading! And I totally agree it’s the relationship with God that’s most important
Nice post 🌺🌺
Thank you so much
Been reading the book of Matthew, have you? Great post. Keep reading!
I have and I will thanks for reading
I believe you’ve captured it beautifully. The Christian life is hard and rough. It challenges you daily. I’m struggling and fail daily but I also have to remember there is grace when I fall.
Absolutely!!
Hi, very nice post! After reading your views on Christianity and Christ, I believe that the core values you mention are present in every religion. Whether it’s the Gita, the Bible, or the Quran, all these sacred texts teach similar values. However, they are often interpreted by people in ways that suit their personal agendas or benefit them. It’s unfortunate how religion is sometimes used in politics today to divide people and create chaos.
Thanks for sharing this post, it was very intriguing!
Totally agree!!
Great post, wonderfully written as well! ❤️👏
Thank you so so much!
I think your description of Christ and Christianity is good. It’s sound. Christ’s teachings are often contradictory to those of the humanist, material world. His life, death, and resurrection are invitations to be better than. And yet it’s all for love, not for superiority. In fact, humility and servanthood are called for. I look forward to your ongoing reading of the Bible with all the challenges in reactions to come.
Totally agree with your comment, I found it insightful and I appreciate the well wishes!
Oh how much I agree!
I hate hate when someone says it was gods will when my son is dealt another blow.
What god?!?!
I met with a pastor who explained the Bible was written by men who had their own motives…
Regardless.
A god who is all powerful and all merciful would not have been okay with childhood cancer (not my issue but seriously) or any other innocents suffering (definitely see that daily with my son).
❤️
Thank you so much for reading and commenting!!
What a terrible “pastor” who does even know what the Bible says, “19We also have the word of the prophets as confirmed beyond doubt. And you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. 20Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture comes from one’s own interpretation. 21For no such prophecy was ever brought forth by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” 2 Peter 1:19-21.
Amen!
“I tend to think religion, much like politics, is a giant game of telephone—someone says something, and it gets misinterpreted in ways only humans can misinterpret.” I couldn’t agree more.
“So lately, with a curious mind, I’ve made a habit of reading the Bible to understand more and form my own thoughts on the stories I’ve been hearing for decades.”
Now your thinking. I’d have to say your bold writing this as this is very uncommon speech you say. Not sure how long you have been reading the Bible on your own. But I encourage you to keep going. It is fruitful and you will change your mind again and again as you said yourself.
Remember the misquote… Jack of all trades master on none… It was actually Jack of All trades Master of One… That is The Bible my friend.
Keep going my friend you are almost there. God honors the struggle. If you diligently seek Him with all your heart He will meet you! Find a way to serve and honor Him for His goodness and greatness!
Thank you!!
First time reading your blog and now interested in the “snark” I may find in other posts. 😁 I think the struggle is to be embraced. To live only for ourselves and not ponder or attempt to understand a divine creator, if it exists, seems a flat existence to me. But I like to complicate life; I’m hardwired that way. I did wonder which version of the Bible you are reading as there are vast differences between the versions. And the Catholic version has several books that are not included in the Protestant versions. I enjoyed this post very much and look forward to reading your blog. Thanks for checking out mine and the like too. Sorry for typos! Reading on my phone. 😄
Thank so much for reading – lately I’ve been reading the modern English version just because I think comprehension is the most important part of reading anything – but I also appreciate you stopping by!
hat was a really thoughtful and honest post. I’m not particularly religious myself, but I can definitely appreciate the idea of living a more empathetic life 🙏🏼
So happy you enjoyed!
Hey Anthony! I’m so glad you’re digging into God’s Word. You can’t really form a decision on something you haven’t read for yourself, right? What are your thoughts on who Christ was? Do you think He was just a really, really good person or do you believe He was the Son of God, as He claimed to be?
If you ever want to discuss what you’re reading or have any questions, I would love to chat with you as a Christian myself. I’m so glad you’re wanting to live for God!
Appreciate you reading! I think he was the son of God and I appreciate your offer, what do you think?
Absolutely! Have you ever read the bit in Mere Christianity where Lewis lays out the argument about how Jesus is either a liar, a lunatic, or the Lord? It’s very good.
I have not but that sounds interesting, will check out
I really appreciate that message
You have the definition of “real” Christianity down.
Thank you so much!
Being a Christian is a journey to be transformed to be Christ like. The more we read from His word and actually do what it says the more our Lives are transformed for the better. But just like any journey, it has a beginning. A personal decision has to be made in your heart and through the confession of your mouth. Believing that Jesus died on the cross and rose up again to bring us salvation, redemption, restoration. And allowing Him to be our Lord and savior, submitting to His word and living by His word.
Continue to read His word and may you continue to grow in your knowledge of Christ.
Will do!!
Amen.
Well written. Thank you for sharing! 😊
Thank you so much!
My pleasure.
The vast majority of so proclaimed Christians are the most judgemental people who don’t even consider pedophilia to be against the law. I have heard christian church goers tell parents of moelsted kids to NOT go to court to press charges but “let god deal with it”….
This part it’s totally out of my alley: “I tend to think we humans are deeply flawed, deeply emotional creatures of comfort. We want to protect ourselves, and the way we do that is by relying on our ego. Left unchecked, our egos will go out of their way to put us first, to protect us at any cost, and to justify every bad behavior we have. It’s our wingman that’s wingin’ 24/7, 365.” And I think your story is a honest interpretation of what Christian means.
So happy to you enjoyed, thank you for reading
You make some great points. As Christians, we are to be disciples of Christ, learn from Him and try to be like Him; make decisions based on what Jesus would do and not what we desire.
Too many folks adopt the label of Christian simply because they acknowledge there’s a God, which is where Christianity gets a really bad reputation (bigots who spew hate). Even demons admit Jesus is Lord, doesn’t make them Christians.
I wish more folks would dive into the Bible like you have. It’s the best way to learn (truth) about God’s nature and build a solid foundation. I know my own life changed when I did that.
Thank you for the insightful post, I hope it inspires many!
Thank you so much for the kind words!!
Great blog!
Thank you so much!
Well, you’ve said the core.
I am of the opinion that the central reason for the conflicts— internal and external — is the fact that Humans take the life of Christ as the basis of a sect’s belief, but no, it isn’t so. The life of Christ was/is the basis of the journey back to the Creator.
The human factor here often wants to exercise the right to choice by imposing stronger beliefs in the accident than the palpable explanation for the accident.
Well said!! Better than I could say for sure. I think for me, grace is a huge factor. Jesus died for us, because we are imperfect. I don’t know. Maybe I choose the easy or the lazy route, but if He thought we could do it on our own… then would He have needed to do what He did? And I haven’t been to church since before COVID either. And I know nothing lol. Thanks for the post though, I think it was good timing for me to read it right now!
Thank you so much! So happy you enjoyed!
I applaud you for your openness on your walk with Christ. I would like to add that we should focus on the relationship with Christ and not the religion of Christianity. In my studies and discussions with other believers, I’ve noticed that all of Christ’s work focused on reestablishing our relationship with God the Father. The religion of Christianity is where we can get caught up with all of the denominations (Baptist, Methodist, etc.) and the traditions that follow. Christ himself was religiously based in Judaism, but his teachings were unconventional in comparison and he was crucified for it. I pray that you remain steadfast on your Christ walk and remember Matthew 11:28-30 when it gets tough. God bless and thank you for sharing 🙏🏿
Thank you so much, I appreciate you!
I have actually read only the Bible for children. I honestly did not like too much the Old Testament. I am also not obsessed with church but I am spiritual, I go to church mainly for important events and also on Sundays…but I pray almost every day, and not only for me. I like what you say here and congratulations for reading the Bible! Maybe, slowly, people like us are setting a new era – a new time of Christians who are first of all humans (so, imperfect) but with a human heart. I think this is amazing and I also consider we can be Christians or Human in many ways. The main point is basically the same – we step slowly, with thoughts of Good and Love. God bless you too & stay forever on the Good Road.. & take care! 😇
Thank you so so much!!
I came across this post through Reader discover section and was curious what a person from different religion think about it. I was amazed how much similarity I found between these points and Islamic point of view. Every religion promotes humanity and peace. We are just not practicing it well enough.
And yes, Religion and Science not only should go side by side, in fact they MUST. If the creator created the world, the laws of the world comes from the god himself. Science only explains/discover them. If science contradicts with true word of the god, it only means either the scientists did not discover it fully, or the technology is not yet developed enough to explain it.
To as many as received Him, He gave the power to become the sons (and daughters) of God. We have to receive Him first and then we can start to experience His transformative power. We cannot follow His example in our own strength. All have sinned and come short of the glory of God. It took His sacrifice on the cross to atone for the sins of the world. He gives us a new nature.
Amen and AMEN!!!
I just love this! I think you’ve said it perfectly. It’s not about showing up every Sunday, it’s about looking to Him daily! In everything you do. It’s not about being perfect, not even close. Just putting your faith into our creator, and our love into the world!
Thank you so so much!
Spot on Mary Jane.
Most beautiful piece I’ve seen this year ❤️
Wow thank you so much!!
The older I get the more serious I get about studying the Bible and living by it’s lessons. I’ve always been curious about being Christ like, but I now have the patience to really wait on God and see the miracles he performs in my life.
Thank you for writing this post. It’s good to see other people exploring The Word.
Thank you so much for reading!!
I really enjoyed reading this blog! I believe that it has to be higher power. This stuff didn’t get built by itself lol. Let the Lord continue to use you. You have a way with words that really flow in a sense. Keep blogging 👍🏽
Thank you so much! I loved reading this
Thank you for sharing. God bless. I hope you have a personal encounter with the God of the Bible. Acts17:26From one mand He made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and He determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their lands.
27God intended that they would seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us. 28‘For in Him we live and move and have our being.’
Thank you so much for reading and the well wishes
Good one
Thank you!
Thank you for your thought-provoking post, and for inviting our thoughts on the subject. I am struck by the words in your post that “Real Christianity is much harder than you think.”
Here are my two cents for what it’s worth:
Real Christianity is to accept Christ’s claim that He is “the way, the Truth and the Life.” There are no compromises. He is the ONLY way and to be a Christian is to believe that premise/assumption. That is why Real Christianity is much harder than you think, it is a different thinking than what the rest of the world thinks, or the premises of other religions. It demands humility on our part, that we cannot do it on our own and there are not several ways to the top of the mountain, there is only one way – through Christ.
Christ is the Son of God. Humanity is flawed, sinful and has a desperately sick heart. As such, humanity needs salvation. We cannot reach God by ourselves or by our own “good works”, we cannot go to heaven just by being good. For God is holy, and He cannot look upon sin. Jesus Christ is the only bridge to the Heavenly Father, the Creator, since Christ offered the perfect sacrifice by the shedding of His blood on Calvary to atone for our sins.
Being a Christian is to put our faith in Jesus Christ, to accept Him as our Lord and Savior, to have a “spiritual heart transplant”, to be born again and have Christ live in us. Through Christ, we have access to the Heavenly Father and be in relationship with Christ, the Father and the Holy Spirit.
It is a radical way of life which is often misunderstood and criticized.
Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts. Have a blessed day.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and I agree!
Being a Christian isn’t about throwing on your nicest shoes and going to church on Sunday. This is a powerful sentence for me Tony. The bible is a great read and needed to be done multiple times for me and still I should read it again but the message I find in it is to spread peace and love as the most important thing. Great post.
Thank you so much for reading my friend! Glad you enjoyed!
thank you so much for this blog post. it is so true, being Christian requires much effort and time however totally worth the journey and the peace that comes with having an intimate relationship with God<3 God bless to you too
Thank you so so much!
Even though you are not a Christian, your work is correct.
You wrote correctly.
Talking about being Christ like, Christ has made us perfect in imperfection. We should strive to be holy till the day of rapture where Jesus will make us completely Whole.
Thanks for an insightful post
Thank you so much! So glad you enjoyed
You are most welcome.
I want to encourage you to continue the good work in the vineyard of God
Thanks for sharing
I’ve just discovered the covenant calendar club
Pretty cool
Shalom
Wry cook!
Very cook*
Thank you for sharing!