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Spirituality and religion are two concepts that most people would probably use interchangeably. From a personal perspective, however, these two concepts stand for two different things. For me, religion is an expression that signifies a tradition that is linked to our spirituality while spirituality is an innate aspect that signifies our faith.
When our spirituality is expressed through tradition, like feasts or certain practices, we are living according to a specific religion. On the contrary, spirituality doesn’t necessarily require religion. Personally, as a Christian, my spirituality defines my whole being. My decision in life, my character, and my values are influenced by my spirituality or my faith. My belief in the Lord Jesus Christ allows me to live a more peaceful life and be focused on things that matter most, like my relationships and the talents and gifts that were given to me. However, I do not classify Christianity as a religion. In other words, I personally do not have a religion. My spirituality, on the other hand, is something that I carry with me every single day. My spirituality, my Christian faith, is my way of living – not my religion. I am more patient, more disciplined, and more eager to love life now more than ever because of my spirituality. I certainly believe that a person can live a good life without a religion, but one will be at lost without spirituality.
Overall, people may often see the concepts of religion and spirituality as one thing, but for me, they are definitely different. Religion is man-made while spirituality is a divine gift, an innate part of a human being’s existence. Without spirituality, we will not be able to feel a sense of true completeness and satisfaction.
