Bible Reading: Ezra 8: 2 Timothy 3:1-9
“Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away” – 2 Timothy 3:5 (KJV).
Religion is simply a form of godliness. It is an outward show without internal substance. it is mere putting up appearance as if one is godly. Such appearance that lacks the inward character or nature does not impress God. People may be impressed and score the person high in the scale of godliness but God searches the heart.
Such form of godliness could be seen in the mode of dressing, could be evident in the way one talks or the language one uses. It could be evident in the mood one portrays and even in the mode of worship and manner of prayer. A form of godliness could be lifestyle adjustment or behavioral modification but true godliness cannot be acted, it is real, it is rooted in divine encounter with God resulting to transformation of life.
In the true godliness, Christ’s character is evident in the fruit the person bears in thoughts, actions, and lifestyle. Genuine godliness embodies the power of godly character and changed life. A form may look like it but it is not the original, it is a mere resemblance.
The Pharisees displayed form of godliness in their traditions, beliefs, doctrines and behavior but they lacked genuine godliness. Their heart was far from God. They are more interested in the external that people see because pleasing God was never their objective. Their concern was just to impress men who look at the outward.
Jesus frowns at such hypocritical life; he only commits himself to genuine worshipers.
PRAYER: Oh Lord, create in me a genuine heart of worship.
Rev. Vincent Diolu