Number 34 in the series “God Rocks: 101 Amazing Everyday Gifts!” Stories and promises of Jesus that show us the awesome blessings we can experience each day. I hope it encourages you!

I talk often with people turned off by religion. They view it as trying to following a bunch of oppressive rules to impress a God they’re not sure exists. So they really have little interest in it.

Frankly though I see an opposite and more insidious perspective. Religious people who attend services regularly and follow the rules “at least better than most others.” They’d never admit it but they really don’t see a need for God’s grace.

Photo Credit: Mani Babbar

Yet, both miss the relationship with God. No, I’m not making judgment calls about who’s saved and who isn’t. I’m just saying they miss out on the intimate relationship they could have with God and the soul peace that comes out of it.

And frankly, I don’t speak from a distance. I’ve lived both extremes and experienced the emptiness they bring.

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