TOGETHER AGAIN by Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
2 Chronicles 7:14 – "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land."
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Introduction
The Living God is calling His people to return to Him, to be united again under His covering and grace. In the past, the Israelites experienced scattering, captivity, and misery due to their disobedience and rejection of God’s commands. Yet when they repented and cried out to God, He gathered them once more, showing them mercy and blessings. This is a lesson we must take to heart today. God desires for His people to walk in obedience, humility, and integrity, so that they may experience His mercies and be reunited under His protection. This is the time when God is pouring out His Spirit upon all who are willing to listen and obey. The call to gather together again is now, as God’s people must come under His covering to receive His light, His strength, and His salvation.
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The Consequences of Disobedience
Throughout history, God’s people have faced hardships and suffering because they turned away from His commands. The Israelites were often scattered and oppressed by foreign nations because they followed the ways of the heathen. Their disobedience led them to captivity, misery, and destruction. However, when they repented and returned to God, He brought them back into His fold. It is a reminder for us today to walk in His ways and keep His commandments, so we do not fall into similar pitfalls of rebellion.
“But the one who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with him.”
1 Corinthians 6:17
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God’s Mercy and Redemption
No matter how far we stray, God’s mercy is always available for those who are willing to repent and return to Him. Just as God extended mercy to the Israelites, He is extending mercy to the lost and the unsaved today. While we may be tempted to look at the wickedness around us with disdain, we must remember that God is calling all people to repentance. The unsaved are not beyond His reach, and His grace is extended to all who are willing to believe in His Son, Jesus Christ, and receive salvation.
“The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
2 Peter 3:9
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The Importance of Integrity and Obedience
God calls His people to live with integrity, to walk in righteousness, and to obey His commands. This is how we can be part of His fold, under His protection, and partakers of His blessings. It is not enough to simply acknowledge God; we must live according to His will and remain faithful to Him. Only then will we be able to receive His mercy and be used to bring others into His Kingdom.
“Blessed are those who are pure in heart, for they will see God.”
Matthew 5:8
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The Role of the Believer in Reaching the Lost
As believers, it is our duty to reach out to the lost, to welcome them into God’s fold, and to encourage them to turn from their sins. Just as we were once lost and in need of redemption, we must be compassionate towards those who are still trapped in their sins. We must not be jealous of those who have just come to the faith, but instead, we must embrace them as part of the family of God. Our mission is to spread the message of repentance and salvation, just as Jesus did during His time on earth.
“And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.’”
Matthew 28:18-19
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The Call to Repentance and Redemption
God is calling all people to repentance, to turn from their wicked ways and embrace the salvation He offers through Jesus Christ. We are not to waste time following the ways of the world, which lead to destruction. Instead, we are to focus on God’s call to obedience, and through that obedience, we find redemption, peace, and joy. Let us not be distracted by the temptations and deceptions of the enemy, but let us remain faithful to God’s will and His purpose for our lives.
“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”
Matthew 3:2
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Summary
The time has come for God’s people to gather together once again. Through repentance and obedience, we can experience God’s mercy and be part of His Kingdom. We are called to live with integrity, to obey God’s commands, and to reach out to those who are lost, guiding them to the salvation that can only be found through Jesus Christ. The call to repentance and redemption is for everyone—there is no one beyond the reach of God’s grace.
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Conclusion
Do not waste time in rebellion or disobedience. The time for repentance is now, and God is calling you to return to Him. As you walk in His ways and remain faithful, you will experience His blessings, His mercy, and His strength. Reach out to others, welcoming them into the fold, and help lead them to the Savior. This is the time for God’s people to gather together and fulfill the calling He has placed upon our lives.
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Call to Action
If you are far from God or have not yet accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior, now is the time to turn to Him. Repent of your sins and believe in Jesus Christ, who died for your sins and rose again to give you eternal life. Do not wait for another moment. Embrace God’s grace and be united with His people.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Remember, no matter how far you have fallen, God’s mercy is greater. His love is unconditional, and He is calling you back to Himself. Trust in His forgiveness and His power to transform your life. You are not beyond His reach, and He is ready to welcome you back into His fold with open arms.
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Salvation Prayer
Heavenly Father,
I come before You in repentance, acknowledging 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 ask for Your forgiveness and for Your strength to live according to Your will. I accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior, and I commit to following Him. Thank You for Your mercy and grace. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
