The Privilege of Living for God By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23, ESV)
Introduction
In a world engulfed by gross darkness, where multitudes pursue sin and face eternal damnation, God’s call to His people is a beacon of hope: be glad for the privilege of living for Him. The message underscores the stark contrast between the path of righteousness, which leads to eternal life, and the way of sin, which leads to death and the torments of hell. As humanity increasingly turns to the seductive lies of the enemy, believers are urged to embrace the joy of serving God, guided by His strength and love. This divine exhortation warns against the deceptive pleasures of sin and the enslavement they bring, while highlighting the freedom and joy found in obedience to God. Through a detailed exploration of this message, we will uncover the principles that guide believers to reject the world’s delusions, choose the path of righteousness, and live in the joy of God’s presence, shining as lights in a hate-filled, sin-cursed world.
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The Privilege of Living for God
The message opens with a call to rejoice in the opportunity to live for God, a privilege that sets believers apart from those perishing in their sins. Through God’s strength, we are empowered to pursue the path that leads to His eternal abode, escaping the fate of those who choose damnation. This privilege is rooted in the salvation offered through Jesus Christ, which delivers us from the chains of sin and grants us eternal life.
“I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live.” (Deuteronomy 30:19b, ESV)
This scripture emphasizes the choice between life and death. By choosing to live for God, we embrace His gift of eternal life, finding purpose and joy in His presence.
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The Darkness of Sin’s Path
The message highlights the gross darkness enveloping the world, as multitudes pursue sin and abandon righteousness. Those who oppose God, seeking their own way, become His enemies, ensnared by the devil’s lies. Their pursuit of sin’s fleeting pleasures blinds them to the reality of eternal consequences, leading to a life of torment and an eternity in hell.
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” (Proverbs 14:12, ESV)
This verse warns of the deceptive nature of sin’s path. Believers are called to reject the world’s folly, recognizing that only God’s way leads to true life and joy.
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The Deceptions of the Enemy
The enemy’s seductive lies lure people into slavery, promising pleasure but delivering chains of bondage. The message reveals that those who engage in “sin search” harden their hearts against God, becoming trapped in a cycle of torment and despair. Once ensnared, escape is nearly impossible, as the enemy’s deceptions lead to a life of misery and eternal damnation.
“But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire.” (James 1:14, ESV)
This scripture exposes the seductive power of sin, which leads to spiritual death. By resisting the enemy’s lies and clinging to God’s truth, believers avoid the traps that enslave the unrighteous.
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God’s Sorrow and Call to Repentance
God’s warnings, manifested in natural disasters and divine judgments, reflect both His anger and His deep sorrow over humanity’s refusal to repent. The message underscores that many ignore these warnings, choosing diversions and addictions to escape reality. Their blindness to eternity’s consequences leads them to a miserable existence, far worse than the realities they seek to avoid.
“The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9, ESV)
This verse reveals God’s desire for all to turn from sin and be saved. His warnings are a call to repentance, urging humanity to choose salvation over damnation.
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The Joy of God’s Way
In contrast to the misery of sin, God’s way is beautiful and delightful, offering joy and peace in His presence. The message encourages believers to remain in God’s path, guided by His Spirit and uplifted by His love. By looking to God as the author and finisher of our faith, we experience His enduring love and the blessings reserved for the obedient.
“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” (Psalm 16:11, ESV)
This scripture assures us that God’s path leads to abundant joy. By choosing His way, we are delivered from the dregs of sin and brought into the delight of His presence.
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Living as Lights in a Hate-Filled World
In a world consumed by hate and darkness, believers are called to shine as lights, reflecting God’s love and righteousness. The message emphasizes that those who choose God’s way stand in stark contrast to the majority, who grow worse in their sin. By serving God with gladness, we demonstrate the transformative power of His salvation, drawing others to the hope found in Christ.
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16, ESV)
This verse calls us to live as testimonies of God’s goodness, shining brightly in a darkened world and pointing others to the salvation offered through Jesus.
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Summary
The message celebrates the privilege of living for God, offering believers the opportunity to escape the darkness of sin and embrace the joy of His eternal kingdom. In a world pursuing damnation, we are called to reject the enemy’s deceptions, heed God’s call to repentance, and walk in His beautiful path. By choosing righteousness and serving God with gladness, we experience His love and shine as lights in a hate-filled world, bearing witness to the salvation found in Christ.
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Conclusion
The privilege of living for God is a gift of grace, delivering us from the chains of sin and the torments of hell. In a world of gross darkness, believers are called to choose God’s path of righteousness, rejecting the deceptive pleasures of sin and embracing the joy of His presence. By heeding His warnings, resisting the enemy’s lies, and shining as lights, we fulfill our purpose as God’s people, destined for eternal life in His kingdom.
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Call to Action
Rejoice daily in the privilege of living for God, cultivating gratitude for His salvation. Reject the lies of the enemy by clinging to God’s truth and walking in obedience to His Spirit. Shine as a light in the darkness, sharing the hope of salvation with those enslaved by sin. Choose God’s way each day, trusting in His guidance to lead you to eternal life.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Take heart in the joy of serving God, knowing that His love sustains you in a world of darkness. Your life, radiant with His righteousness, is a testimony to His grace and power. Trust in His guidance, and let your gladness draw others to the eternal life found in Him.
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Prayer of Salvation
Heavenly Father, I come before You, acknowledging my need for Your grace and salvation. I confess that I have sinned and fallen short of Your glory. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son, who died for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. I repent of my sins and ask You to forgive me. Come into my heart, Lord Jesus, and be my Savior and Lord. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, and guide me in Your truth. Thank You for Your love and the promise of eternal life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
