Empty rites

SUMMARY: We often follow religious routines without actively seeking God's presence. The Hebrews believed that having the ark of the covenant would bring victory, but they suffered defeat because they lacked spiritual discernment. Similarly, if we believe that empty rituals and programs will bring blessings, we are wrong. We need to actively participate with our hearts and passion to bring the power of God into our meetings. God does not bless dead religion and we need a fresh visitation of His power.

Many times we limit ourselves to following the routine of the Christian life and we ask ourselves: Why doesn't God bless me? Why am I not receiving health care? Why am I not prosperous? Why is there no blessing in my family? Why doesn't my emotional state change? Why are my finances not blessed?

Perhaps it is because although we have retained the rites of religion, we do not enjoy the present presence of God with us. We have to look for that real Power of God! We have to go where his active Presence is, and impart reality to the rites in which we participate.

Other publications related to "Empty rites":

Classic Sermon #6062: The Ark Within Us
In this article, Dr. Roberto Miranda discusses the deeper issue of spiritual sterility and the importance of allowing God to transform every aspect of our being. He emphasizes the need for a total transformation, not just external acts, and the necessity of going through a process of death and resurrection to reach where God wants us to be.

Don't settle for less than the best
The author discusses the importance of seeking Gods presence and unleashing His power through worship, adoration, and consecration. Using the story of David and the Ark, the author emphasizes the need for a hunger for Gods glory and the importance of consecrating oneself to Him.