For many people being religious means to participate in rituals and ceremonies in an established religion. Often these are done without understanding their value or purpose. I will not defend the practices of 21st century religions. So many of them are busy with things no-where found in God’s word. Too many churches look, act and sound nothing like Christ’s church in the Bible. It is no wonder that people are discouraged and disillusioned by religion.
Many who are turned off by what they see in religion, still firmly believe in God, eternity, and a spiritual reality beyond this physical, material existence. What do such people often do? They seek God and spiritual life on their own and in a manner that seems proper to them: read some Bible, pray, try to be good, put faith in an eternal higher power, developing their own personal rituals. While this personal effort may feel more satisfying than following the religious rites arbitrarily determined by church leaders, it is still human beings trying to connect to God based on what they imagine and what they prefer (just like so many churches).
The answer to our question is in God’s word! If rituals are to be performed, God will tells us what they are, how to do them and why they are important! Spiritual truth is not found in what people think but in what God reveals! To be truly spiritual we need to hear God for “God is spirit and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” John 4:24. God defines true religion. God’s religion is the path to true spirituality.
May God bless you in your search for His Truth. Let me know if you think I can help.