[141 words]
Since only a religion of the heart has value, let us see what the Bible includes as part of heart religion. According to the Holy Scriptures heart religion is:
Heart-felt. With the heart man loves (Matthew 22:37) and desires (Romans 10:1). Good feelings by themselves are not an indication that one is right with God but if one is right with God good feeling will result. Rejoicing (a feeling) comes after obedience (Acts 8:36-39). In religion we feel good because we are right, but we are not right with God just because we feel good.
Heart-thought. The heart thinks (Proverbs 23:7); understands (Matthew 13:15) and believes (Romans 10:10). True Christianity involves the intellect.
Heart-acted. True heart religion results in obedience to God’s commands (Romans 6:16,17). This includes baptism into Christ (Romans 6:4).
There is a great difference in heart religion and “holler” religion. Is your religion from the heart?
Bill Dillon
via Gospel Gems Vol. 2