Have you ever wondered whether you are involved with the right religion? When I look at all the other religions and their total dedication, how much effort they put in, and the hours they devote to their religion, I have sometimes wondered whether we are on the right road.

Was I just fortunate growing up in a Christian home? Where would I have been today if I had been exposed to other religions from a young age? Then I doubt even more. I usually end these confusing thoughts by reflecting on one of my Theology lecturers, Prof. Willie Jonker, and say that if he followed the Christian religion, it must surely be right.

Do you sometimes ask this question too?

Fortunately, we don’t have to be caught up in these gymnastics of the mind, because the Bible gives us peace of mind: ¹⁶This Christian life is a great mystery, far exceeding our understanding, but some things are clear enough: He appeared in a human body, was proved right by the invisible Spirit, was seen by angels. He was proclaimed among all kinds of peoples, believed in all over the world, taken up into heavenly glory.

How do the English say? As true as Bob! You can now stop wondering if we believe in the right God. Here, in a letter written nearly 2000 years ago, Paul says so. And central to our faith is Jesus on the cross where he died to open the gates of heaven for you and me.

You can now tell me that other religions also had similar “saviours”. What then is the difference? The difference lies in the fact that Jesus did not remain on the cross or in the grave. No, our Jesus is different, because God made Him rise from the dead. He made Him ascend to heaven, “into heavenly glory”.

You see, God is stronger than death. All other religions fail this last test. It is here where the saying, to separate wheat from the chaff, starts making sense.

Thank you! We are going the right way!

Now that I know this, the question remains: “What happens to me when I realise I’m going the right way?” Does it change the way I live?

You can only answer these questions with the Holy Spirit whispering in your ear.

As I understand it, something has to change. In a way I have to start living what I believe. Passing the last test must become so visible in my life that others are driven to know who is the One now controlling my life.

What does this mean basically? Go and live your life as a saved child of the real God. Go and make a difference to the people out there – no matter what they believe in. Go and tell them about your salvation and the freedom you won as a result. Reach out to people in need – share a piece of bread.

Then we’ll be different too!

Scripture

1 Timothy 3:14-16

Think about this

Do you sometimes doubt that you believe in the “right” religion?
Can we believe for certain that our God is the “right” God? Why?

Prayer

Lord, thank you that I can believe in You, the only living God. Please help me to live in such a way that my life reflects what I believe. May others be changed, because I do live that faith. Amen.