Looking for Love in all the Wrong Places

I was reading something in Oswald Chambers this morning that grabbed me.
“Many a soul begins to come to God when he flings off being religious, because there is only one Master of the human heart, and that is not religion but Jesus Christ.”
How easily we are attracted to the confines of religion. Relationship with God is much more difficult than religion. With religion I simply show up, kneel when I’m told to, sing the songs that they give me and go through the motions that have become the traditions of man and the “Norm” for most churches.
With relationship I can’t depend on a pastor, elders or others to do it for me. It’s between Rick and God. Sure, it’s nice to have other followers in your life to help you in those tough moments, but no one can fill my role in this relationship.
When my focus becomes my ministry, my church, or my anything, I find myself in dangerous territory. I used to hear people say (me too) that it was God first, family second and my ministry third. I don’t say that anymore. I think it’s God first, God second and God third. If I put Him in all three positions He’ll take care of all the rest.
Why are we so afraid of Freedom?
It’s no wonder we get trapped in the confines of religion. I think many believers today would rather be safe following rules and religion than free to follow Christ.