The Privilege of God\'s Guidance By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
Proverbs 3:5-6 – "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."
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Introduction
In these tumultuous times, many people have turned away from God, choosing their own way and seeking wisdom from false prophets. They follow lies and live in pride, unaware that the end of such choices is destruction. However, those who follow God are privileged to receive His guidance, His counsel, and His instruction every day. This lesson explores the importance of being thankful for God’s direction in our lives and the consequences of rejecting His truth.
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The Privilege of Receiving God's Counsel
The Living God, in His mercy, offers to guide His people through life’s challenges. His counsel is the path that leads to peace, righteousness, and salvation. We should be grateful for this privilege, knowing that we do not have to wander like those who follow lies.
Psalm 25:9 – "The humble He guides in justice, and the humble He teaches His way."
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The Danger of Following Lies
In the world, many are led astray by the lies of false teachers and self-serving individuals. These lies offer temporary satisfaction but ultimately lead to destruction. Those who refuse the truth and follow after these falsehoods are deceived, thinking they are walking in the right direction, yet they are headed for ruin.
Isaiah 5:20 – "Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter."
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The Call to Walk the Straight Path
God calls us to walk the straight and narrow path, accepting the truth He provides. He offers us mercy and truth, leading us through this life with His wisdom. It is a time to be thankful for His direction, for He is the only one who can lead us to safety and righteousness.
Matthew 7:13-14 – "Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it."
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The Consequences of Pride and Rebellion
Pride and rebellion against God bring devastating consequences. The proud think they can build their kingdoms, relying on their own understanding and efforts, but without God, all they build will collapse. God will bring low those who live in arrogance, proving that their achievements are nothing without His blessing.
James 4:6 – "But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: 'God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'"
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The Wrath of God and the Need for Repentance
In this world of widespread rebellion, God’s wrath will be revealed against the wicked, but He also extends mercy to those who repent and seek His forgiveness. The call to repentance is urgent, for God’s judgment will surely come upon the unrepentant.
2 Peter 3:9 – "The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is long-suffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance."
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Summary
God’s guidance is a precious privilege that we must never take for granted. In a world full of lies and deception, we are called to walk in the truth that He provides. The dangers of pride and rebellion are real, and we must guard our hearts against them. But God, in His mercy, calls us to repent and return to Him, offering grace to those who seek it.
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Conclusion
As followers of Christ, we must be thankful for the privilege of receiving God’s instruction. In these times of great deceit and moral decay, we must remain humble and receptive to His guidance. We should walk in the truth, not allowing pride or rebellion to lead us astray.
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Call to Action
Today, examine your life and your walk with God. Are you grateful for His counsel? Are you staying on the straight and narrow path? If not, repent and ask God for His guidance, and He will lead you in the way everlasting.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Remember that it is God who sustains us and provides for us. He is the way, the truth, and the life. No matter how difficult the road may seem, with God’s guidance, you will walk in peace, righteousness, and hope. Trust in Him, for He alone is able to direct your path and protect you from the schemes of the enemy.
