THE TREADMILL

It seems that Satan is using 'religion' as his weapon of choice now. Misguided mainline denominations (and the cults of our day) have rejected the life-giving truth found in God's Word. Those who fall prey are trapped on a merciless treadmill, working feverishly to obtain the promises put forth by ill-conceived manmade doctrines.

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 1 John 4:1

The twisted tenets of Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses, Seventh-Day Adventists, Prosperity Gospel Adherents, the Roman Catholic Church, and others ... all have one thing in common. 'Works Righteousness' is at the core of their belief systems. They each attempt to meet the demands of their pride-filled rites of passage.

But the apostle Paul warned the early church ... For by works of the Law, no human being will be justified in His sight. (Romans 3:20) 

Like a ship without a sail, those who accept false teachings go nowhere even as they strain at the oars. The water that slaps against the hull of their boat brings a fraudulent sense of spiritual superiority. But they're not in line with God's divine will ... 

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Matthew 7:22-23

Those who want to escape the ruthless treadmill of false religion are often afraid to leave for fear of losing a relationship with God (and the real threat of being shunned by family and friends). It is a cruel snare of the devil.  

Scripture tells us that there is a way to move forward ... but not on a manmade machine or in our own strength.

Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking only at Jesus, the originator and perfecter of the faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2

The path is marked by a sign posted by the very Son of God ... I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. (John 14:6)

A lifetime of practicing 'good' moral behavior won't get you one inch closer to Heaven. 

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

Get off the treadmill, pilgrim. Hoist the sail that catches the Holy Spirit's wind and allow Him to bring you home.