Although I’ve seen it often as I visited different cultures, it never really dawned on me that true Christians can be guilty of it as well. That was until I read Psalm 62.
What I am referring to is syncretism—the blending together of different religions. In particular, I’m talking about to the adding of Christianity to other religions. In Haiti there are those who try to combine voodoo with Christianity. In Africa and elsewhere Christianity is tacked onto ancestral worship.
In missions, we are always quick to point out that anything added to Christianity isn’t true Christianity. Jesus said He was THE way, THE truth and THE life and that no one could come to the Father apart from Him. It is Jesus and Jesus alone—not Jesus plus animism or anything else.
Now before you “amen” that last statement too loudly, consider this: Do you always trust the Lord and the Lord alone to see you through difficulties? Or do you blend a trust of the Lord with a trust in yourself or in something else?
Throughout this Psalm David repeats some form of the phrase “God alone.” God alone was David’s rock, salvation and fortress (vv 2, 6). It was in God alone that his soul found rest and hope (vv1, 5). We are instructed to trust God alone and not in our pride, trickery, or our increased wealth (v10).
How is it that we can trust God and God alone when faced with trials, opposition or other challenges?
There are three things that we have to be absolutely confident about: God is all-powerful (v11), God is loving (v12) and God will reward everyone according to their deeds (v12). God is bigger than the biggest giant you might ever face in your life. God loves you more than you could possibly understand. And God is faithful to reward those who are faithful to Him. If we firmly hold to these three truths then we can truly trust in God alone. But if we falter on any one of these three then we will be tempted to add other things to our trust. We risk being guilty of syncretism—at least when it comes to our daily walk.
Instead, let us heed the words of David (emphasis mine): “Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge” (v8).
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Frank Banfill is an international speaker and leadership developer who seeks to help individuals and ministries realize their full potential in Christ. Please forward this to your family & friends. To get Frank’s devotionals delivered free to your inbox, or to request reprint rights, visit www.FranksBibleBlog.com.
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