BURDENED WITH GOD’S PURPOSE By Major Frank Materu

Introduction

God calls His people to a higher standard—a life of righteousness marked by a burden for His purposes. This burden is not one of despair but a divine calling to care for the perishing, uphold justice, and intercede for the lost. Yet, many who know the way of righteousness fail to declare it, while others neglect their calling or live only for themselves. This teaching challenges us to embrace God’s heart, to rise above complacency, and to live fully for Him.



Righteousness Requires Declaration

There are those who understand the way of righteousness but fail to proclaim it to others. This reluctance renders them guilty before God. To walk uprightly, we must boldly declare His truth and righteousness to the world, especially to those burdened by guilt and sin.

"So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin." (James 4:17, ESV)

Do not hold back the message of salvation but proclaim it with courage. By doing so, you fulfill God’s purpose and avoid falling into guilt yourself.


Answering the Call

Many are called by God, yet they do not walk in obedience or fulfill their divine assignment. However, the standard of the calling remains, and we will be judged by it. God’s calling is not to be taken lightly; it is a sacred trust.

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10, ESV)

Living righteously means striving to complete the course God has set for us, even in the face of challenges.


Carrying God’s Burden

God desires a people burdened by the things that burden His heart—souls perishing, the oppressed suffering, and justice being ignored. A righteous life is one that intercedes for others and carries the weight of their pain before God.

"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:2, ESV)

Do not live selfishly, seeking only your comfort. Instead, open your heart to God’s desires and allow His Spirit to move you to action for the sake of others.


God’s Move Among the Least

The Spirit of God often moves in unexpected places, including among those society considers least—prisoners, the oppressed, and the outcasts. Do not despise or dismiss these moves of God, for He calls us to reach out to all people.

"Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25:40, NIV)

Righteousness compels us to love and minister to those in need, trusting that God works in every circumstance to bring His children closer to Him.


Avoiding Laziness and Complaints

This generation struggles with spiritual laziness, seeking convenience instead of growth through faith. God desires a people who are active in their faith, willing to face challenges and grow stronger.

"For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." (2 Timothy 1:7, ESV)

Moreover, avoid cursing your day through complaints and negativity. Instead, cultivate gratitude, knowing that God works all things for good.

"Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, 'children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.' Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky." (Philippians 2:14-15, NIV)


Summary

  1. Declare Righteousness Boldly: Do not hold back the truth; share God’s word without fear. (James 4:17)
  2. Fulfill Your Calling: Walk in the works God has prepared for you. (Ephesians 2:10)
  3. Carry God’s Burden: Intercede for the perishing and act justly. (Galatians 6:2)
  4. Embrace God’s Move: Minister to the least and trust His Spirit’s leading. (Matthew 25:40)
  5. Reject Laziness and Complaints: Cultivate gratitude and remain active in faith. (Philippians 2:14-15)


Conclusion

Living righteously is more than personal piety; it is about embracing God’s burden and fulfilling His purposes. By declaring His truth, answering His call, and interceding for the lost, we align ourselves with His will. Avoid spiritual complacency and cultivate gratitude, knowing that God’s glory is manifested in the lives of obedient people.


Action Points

  1. Declare God’s Word: Share the gospel boldly in your community. (Romans 1:16)
  2. Pray for the Perishing: Dedicate time daily to intercede for those who are lost or suffering. (1 Timothy 2:1-4)
  3. Serve the Least: Find practical ways to minister to prisoners, the oppressed, and the marginalized. (Isaiah 61:1)
  4. Practice Gratitude: Begin and end each day by thanking God for His blessings. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
  5. Strengthen Your Faith: Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. (James 1:2-4)

By living out these principles, we reflect God’s heart to a broken world and advance His kingdom on earth. Amen.