The word religion can incur the ire of many in this generation. Recent studies indicate that most are moving away from religion and either giving up faith in God, not passing down traditional beliefs to their children, or forming their own brand of spirituality. Religion as a bedrock of society, however, is important and you may want to reconsider if it should have a place in your life.

The term religion is an umbrella one from which all the world’s religions are compassed rather than one branch. The branch to be discussed here is Christianity, however, religion as a whole has been important to society in helping to frame a foundation for culture, morals, and societal roles. Most who do participate in religion say that it benefits them in tangible ways. Three of those appear to be in giving a sense of purpose, guidance, and security; Three things needed in life for a securer foundation and good mental health.

Benefits of Religion: Purpose, Guidance and Security

At the center of religion is the family and the individual. People make up their individual congregations and interact with society either in a positive or negative way. While many say that religion is the cause of wars, at the interpersonal level, we’ve seen  a rise in antisocial behavior, a focus on material possessions, and increased sense of emptiness with the movement away from religion.  This feeling of emptiness often is caused by not knowing that there is purpose to life.  Its not all about getting and amassing, but sharing, worshiping and developing ourselves in faith andpersonal betterment.

A Life of Purpose

When God created humans, He provided purpose, guidance and security. He has not wavered in bringing about circumstances that allow us to benefit from these original provisions. Jesus Christ, the head of the Christian Church, said that every life will go through storms. Our life’s foundation, in order to withstand the storms, should be based on obedience to his word.

Being able to do so requires guidance and direction on what his word is and what God requires of us. The word of God, the manual of the Christian religion, provides that.  The bible explains that life is not an accident. It exemplifies that during our lifetime, we want to draw close to God and show love to our fellow man.  A christian is given the mandate by Christ to share the good news with others.  Besides that, we may have many different talents, goals, and dreams. These are God given and meant towards our personal rather than collective purpose as Christians.   We should pursue these with all our heart. It is the reason why we were created and evidenced our purpose in life is designed.

A Life that Benefits from Religious Guidance

Guidance is a more well known benefit of religion. With the ten commandments, we have a moral framework on how to exist and interact with God and others. But there is also financial guidance, family guidance, and certainly spiritual guidance. Not having to make up rules in life leads to having a more focused direction. This guidance provided has also been tested. We have the example given of those who followed and those who did not. We are given the choice to succeed towards the ultimate goal – life eternal – or submit to just the here and now.

Many feel that they can remain moral and live with integrity without the requirement to adhere to a religious code or recognize a creator outside of themselves. This is the thrust of much of the philosophy for today’s living.  But our moral conscience was given to us by God and therefore the creator has placed within us a need for Him and for correct desires.

How Religion Provides Security?

There is security in knowing where the world is going. World Religions often seek to tell the story of man and his interaction with the world around him. The God of the bible seeks to differentiate himself by telling accurate history, practical present truths, and prophecy about the future.

Biblical prophecy dictates the direction of politics and world affairs and so far has been shown to be timely and accurate about the various kingdoms that have taken center stage in the world. On an individual basis, our choices dictate whether or not we will see success and life eternal. Whether or not we like religion, Jesus says it is truth.  Knowing there is a source of truth provides confidence in what is said. There is also security in knowing that some decisions always turn out a certain way. The safeguards we are given help us to have a life with less bumps and more happiness.

Your Brand of Religion Matters

Religion as opposed to the popular meaning of spirituality matters because it directs worship outside of one’s self to a higher source. This means that there is an expected interaction between one’s self and their higher power.  According to God, that should be the expectation.  The God of the bible states that He can cause, act, and do.  He contrasts his personality and power with that of those who worship inanimate objects. He contrasts his words with the philosophy of men.

While this may be controversial, it matters most to God.  It is the heart of the very first commandment. Whether or not we want to believe in God, there is proof that a higher power exists beyond the universe. Our creative intelligent design (human body and mind) indicates something outside of ourselves has the power to influence our world.  He will have the final say. It may be worth it to reconsider the role that religion has provided in building your life’s foundation. It can give guidance, security and purpose on a road filled with storms that will topple us without it.