Religiosity versus Relationship with Christ

I really liked Pastor Tim's sermon this past Sunday on what a relationship with Christ really means versus what has become religiosity. He gave us a few categories of relationship with God that exist in today's world, and some religions were put together in the same categories, and some Christians who are also put in other categories. But basically, the crux of the sermon and the message that I received were this: What does a relationship, and a real relationship (not one that you work for, not one where there are merit points or demerit points) with Jesus Christ really mean? He is the good shepherd, and through faith in Him, we have peace. It is the peace of God that keeps us safe, keeps us from wanting to control everything around us and subsequently taking control from others, and it is what keeps us joyful through all obstacles. Real, safe, silent, overwhelming peace! But what is it that I really want to talk about today?

Here's a statement I disagree with. I won't say who said it, that's just not relevant and it's not what I want to talk about.

I should really just focus on school and work and being happy. That’s all that really matters at this point.

Now, focusing on being happy. Something strikes me as not being quite right about that, because in the past, no matter how much I tried to make myself happy, I wasn't. I tried everything. I tried shopping, I tried alcohol, I tried hanging out with friends, I tried pretending I was happy, I tried indulging my every whim and fancy but it just didn't happen! Now, I could go into detail about why I think every single one of those ways didn't do anything for happiness, but I have one simple answer: they were all temporary things. Joy, on the other hand, is a whole other thing. Joy in our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ, is everlasting. What does everlasting mean? FOREVER. All eternity. Through every up and down in life, through every crisis, every earthquake, every earth shaking experience, there is JOY. And if it comes with Peace, well that just takes the cake. There is nothing like having joy through a relationship with Christ, rather than seeking to be happy all the time. Happiness doesn't last. It fades and when it does, it takes away from your life if it does not come from a well that will not dry. It's just too trivial to be happy, I now find. Why be happy when you can be joyful?

Anyway, about H. I have a plan, and I won't talk about it here or now, but I have a plan.

Here is what was said today, in case I need to refer back to it later. I do not know yet if these statements are true or false and will continue to evaluate them as I have time to spend with her.

1. H seems egocentric and selfish.
2. H seems to want to be my friend because she feels that I am worse off than her/that she is a better person or in a better situation than me and feels good about that (aka putting me down to raise herself up).
3. H feels that other people's troubles and situations are less important than hers.
4. H does not seem to respect my beliefs and values as much as I respect hers. Not the same amount of respect is the key here.