Justin Bieber Reveals He’s Developing His ‘Relationship With God’ But Is ‘Not Religious’
Justin Bieber has revealed he is “developing” his “relationship with God.” He also clarified that he doesn’t see himself as “religious” or want to push his views onto fans, but wanted to share the “good news” about how his faith has helped him personally.
On Tuesday, the superstar posted an Instagram selfie which showed him reading the book “Occupy All Streets” in a nature setting. The singer’s caption was an extract from a biblical Psalm.
“Vindicate me, my god, and plead my cause against an unfaithful nation. Rescue me from those who are deceitful and wicked. – Psalms 43,” Bieber wrote.
After critical remarks from some Instagram commenters, the Biebs added another caption explaining his reason for sharing the scripture and some of his views on his faith.
“I’m not religious,” Bieber noted, before adding, “Nor do i think I have ANYTHING figured out that’s why I call out on God to help me through what I can’t do on my own.”
He went on to say, “Developing my relationship with God has been the coolest thing I’ve experienced, to know that I’m not alone and I don’t have to live in fear. Never feel like I’m pushing anything on u but sharing the good news I’ve felt in my own life.”
The singer also shared a picture at his Fahlo account of a book titled “Occupy all Streets,” another covered with Hillsong New York City labels, and another book that may be a bible.
Bieber’s caption read, “I pray for guidance and prosperity.”
Some Instagram users posted encouragements following Bieber’s declaration. Others took issue with the singer’s separation between “religious” and having an ongoing “relationship with God” because he goes to church.
The chatter isn’t surprising. Typically, when “God” is the topic, many people often get stuck on definitions rather than the substance of what is being said. Add the Justin Bieber factor and his months of apologies for previous missteps, some media commentators steadfastly refuse to believe the Canadian’s penitence is sincere. Somewhat self-servingly, this gives those same commentators an excuse to continue bullying him.
People will try to take advantage of u…they will try to tear u down. Keep your head up and know your truth. Be kind in the face of anger
— Justin Bieber (@justinbieber) May 26, 2015
Although Bieber has been open about his Christian beliefs since his career ignited in 2009, it’s clear his perspective on God has evolved. MTV notes that in 2010, he revealed that he prayed “two to three times a day.” Over on YouTube, there are vintage old interviews with then younger singer stating that his faith kept him “grounded.”
Fast forward to his turbulent 2013-14, Page Six reported last February that the singer was looking to be re-baptized. Last June, TMZ alleged he was re-baptized in New York City by Hillsong Church NYC’s Pastor Carl Lentz.
Lentz appears to be key to Bieber’s emergence from a time of crisis. During his interview with the New York Post last year, the pastor revealed he has known the singer since 2008. Lentz hosted a filmed series called “Occupy All Streets” — a philosophy which encourages Christians to apply the gospel to their daily lives and spread it to others — last January.
As the Inquisitr previously reported, Bieber stayed at the New Jersey home of Lentz, his wife, and three young children last October for a few weeks, following his split with his ex-girlfriend, Selena Gomez. During that time (and since), the singer stepped up his church attendance and received personal guidance from Lentz.
Over the recent Memorial Day weekend, Bieber posted Instagram videos of himself and Lentz playing with nerf guns. The Miami-based Pastor, Rick Wilkerson Jr., and others pals were also there. The Biebs captioned one of the videos, “Pretty much the best day of my life.”
An insight into why Bieber makes a distinction between being “religious” and “developing” a personal “relationship with God,” undoubtedly comes from time spent with Lentz.
Back in July, Lentz told the New York Daily News, “Religion is dead. I don’t know anything about religion, I couldn’t help you. Religion has no power. But a relationship with God is a superpower.”
It’s a message that other pastors and evangelicals have advocated, amid disillusionment with more traditional religions and churches following abuse scandals. More importantly, regardless of ongoing religious vs. spiritual debates, Bieber’s Psalm share and message has the potential to influence millions. Many commenters at his Instagram post stated that they were inspired by it.
Bieber’s journey from delinquent run-ins with the law, paparazzi, a probable over-reliance on marijuana, and acting out during 2013-mid 2014, to his search for inner balance — may help others. Particularly youngsters who do not have a perfect scorecard in school, and/or generally.
Ironic as it may seem to some, the singer’s surging comeback is a positive message to the impressionable, that mistakes do not have to define a person but can be breakthroughs to a more productive life and attitude.
Despite carping from those who seem unable, or unwilling, to allow a 21-year-old to move past his mistakes, the reality is Justin Bieber is a role model now more than ever. Again, it should be noted Bieber has clearly stated that he does not see himself in that position.
[Images via Instagram/Twitter]
