1 Samuel 4:3 “Let us bring the ark of the Lord’s covenant from Shiloh, so that he may go with us and save us from the hand of our enemies.”

The Israelites made a hasty decision based on empty religion. At first glance, it seemed they did the wise thing: bringing the ark would ensure bringing God. However, this chapter shows that it is not an ark of wood that saves and protects us, it is only the Lord Himself.

Apparently, God did not go with them.

When we choose to trust in the things of God but not in God Himself, we are misplacing our trust. When we rely on certain prayers, without relating to the one we are praying to, our relationship has become an empty religion.

Christianity is not about religion. It is not about the outward appearance, saying enough prayers or trusting in certain rituals. Christianity is about keeping your bucket full with a real relationship. Talking to God. Hearing from Him. Had the Israelites inquired the face of the Lord, instead of relying on what had become an idol to them, God would have warned them not to fight the Philistines.

Let’s stop the outward show. Let’s be real with God. He’s okay with that. He loves that.