Dotty, there’s a section in the bible talking about those who practice religion only for how it looks. Praying in a group on the street, joining large amounts of religious groups, that kind of thing. While that’s not bad, the bible warns us against those who practice without feeling it in their heart, only doing those things for personal gain. I personally confessed late at night in bed, and I’ve felt better since. I don’t know if you meant to insult SR or not, but a lot of people feel passionate about these kinds of things.
We got a huge dog to keep bears away, and not only is she effective, but she also keeps away salespeople and mailmen. She’s a 5-year-old all-brown bloodhound, and she loves everything in the most terrifying way only because of her size.
I was confused when I started out, I thought that a lot of people follow god just to stay out of Hell. While some people probably do that, I honestly try to be the best person I can be, praying to God for help. Following Christianity to avoid Hell often leads to you just wanting to follow him, because the very definition of hell is absolute separation from God, meaning being separate from everything he has ever made or done. Following God to stay away from hell means getting closer to Him.
God cares about your pastimes and enjoyment. Devoting your life to him doesn’t mean thinking about Christianity every second.