HAS LEGALISTIC RELIGION HURT YOU?

“God did not send his Son into the world to judge and condemn the world, but to be its Savior and rescue it!” John 3:17 (TPT)

Over the years, I’ve met many people who’ve been hurt by religion. But it’s essential to realize that it wasn’t Jesus who hurt them. That’s an important distinction.

Unfortunately, following Christ becomes legalistic for many people, and they begin to place rule-following ahead of a relationship with God. Sadly, I've discovered this leads to mean-spiritedness. For example, I remember speaking to a heartbroken mom whose church asked her to leave when her husband divorced her.

You see, it is often legalistic people who shun others—not Jesus or the true church. Christ didn't turn His back on people who fell short. Instead, He freely showed them love, acceptance and forgiveness. Why?

Jesus understood that legalism doesn't change hearts. However, people who know they're loved unconditionally feel empowered to change. So, the more people experience God's love, acceptance and forgiveness, the more they taste the freedom found in Christ—and it begins to transform them from the inside out.

Today, maybe you know someone who avoids Jesus because of a past negative encounter. Or perhaps you’ve been hurt by religious family members or rejected by an organization called a church. Recognize that it wasn’t Jesus who wounded or rejected you.

Take time to study Jesus’ example and how He treated people. He embraced them with compassion, regardless of their situation. The truth is, Jesus will never hurt you. Your heart is safe in His hands.