THE DANGER OF EXCUSES BEFORE GOD By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Luke 14:18 (KJV) - 'And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused.'
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Introduction
Excuses are a common part of human nature. From the beginning of time, mankind has sought to justify disobedience to God by making excuses. Whether it was Adam blaming Eve or Moses claiming he could not speak well, the Bible is filled with examples of people attempting to evade God's calling. However, God does not accept excuses; rather, He sees them as a form of abuse against His divine authority. When people put their own desires before Him, they are demonstrating spiritual negligence, which can lead to separation from His presence. In this article, we will explore the consequences of making excuses before God and the importance of full obedience to His will.
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Excuses Are Abuses Against God
The Lord has given clear commands in His Word, and He expects His people to follow them without hesitation. However, many believers today are quick to make excuses rather than obey. They prioritize personal gain, social engagements, or worldly pleasures above God. This pattern of behavior is not new; even in Jesus' time, many refused His invitation to the Kingdom by making excuses.
Matthew 6:33 (KJV) - 'But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.'
Instead of seeking God first, people often delay obedience under the pretense of being too busy. These excuses are abuses because they dishonor God and diminish the reverence due to Him. When one continuously postpones obedience, they risk hardening their heart against God's call.
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The Consequence of Prioritizing Other Things Before God
When individuals place worldly matters above God, they unknowingly drift away from His presence. The Bible warns that those who refuse to listen to God will eventually face His judgment. The parable of the great banquet in Luke 14 illustrates how those who made excuses lost their place at the Lord’s table. Their rejection of the invitation led to their exclusion from His blessings.
Luke 14:24 (KJV) - 'For I say unto you, That none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper.'
God does not tolerate divided loyalty. He desires complete devotion and expects His people to obey without question. Excuses weaken our spiritual commitment and open doors for demonic deception. If people persist in excusing themselves from God's call, they risk losing the privilege of being used by Him.
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The Danger of Procrastination in Obedience
Many believers delay their obedience to God, believing they will have another opportunity in the future. However, delayed obedience is equivalent to disobedience. When God calls, He expects an immediate response. Delaying only provides the enemy with an opportunity to plant doubt and rebellion in our hearts.
Hebrews 3:15 (KJV) - 'While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.'
The more one procrastinates, the more difficult it becomes to obey. This gradual decline leads to a hardened heart, making it harder to recognize the voice of God. We must remember that our time on earth is limited, and the opportunity to obey God does not last forever.
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Self-Will vs. God’s Will
When individuals insist on following their own desires instead of God's will, they are essentially placing themselves above Him. This self-willed nature is a form of pride, which is detestable in God's sight. Many people believe they are in control of their own lives, but in reality, they are being influenced by demonic forces that lead them away from God's purpose.
Proverbs 16:25 (KJV) - 'There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.'
Choosing self-will over God's will is a dangerous path that leads to destruction. Instead of making excuses, believers should humble themselves before the Lord and submit fully to His plans.
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The Call to Full Surrender
God desires a relationship with His people that is based on complete trust and obedience. Half-hearted commitment is unacceptable in His Kingdom. Believers must be willing to abandon their own agendas and surrender fully to God’s will.
Romans 12:1 (KJV) - 'I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.'
Those who fully surrender will experience the peace and blessings that come from walking in alignment with God’s purpose. Excuses hinder spiritual growth, but obedience opens the door to divine favor.
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Summary
Excuses are not acceptable in God’s sight. They represent a lack of commitment and a failure to prioritize Him above all else. Those who continually make excuses risk losing their spiritual inheritance. It is imperative to respond to God's call immediately and wholeheartedly. True obedience comes from a heart that values God above everything else.
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Conclusion
God is not pleased when His people make excuses instead of obeying His commands. Every excuse is a missed opportunity to experience His blessings. As believers, we must strive to be faithful and committed to His will. The time for obedience is now; procrastination only leads to spiritual stagnation.
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Call to Action
Are there areas in your life where you have been making excuses before God? Today is the day to repent and commit yourself fully to His purpose. Stop delaying and step into the calling that God has for you.
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Final Word of Encouragement
God’s mercy is abundant, and He is always ready to receive those who turn to Him in sincerity. If you have been struggling with excuses, ask the Holy Spirit to help you overcome them. God’s plans for you are greater than anything you could ever imagine. Trust Him and walk in obedience.
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Prayer of Salvation
If you have never given your life to Christ or if you desire to renew your commitment to Him, say this prayer with sincerity:
Heavenly Father, I come before You today, acknowledging that I am a sinner. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son, that He died for my sins, and that He rose again on the third day. I accept Him as my Lord and Savior. From this day forward, I surrender my life to You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to walk in obedience to Your will. Thank You for Your mercy and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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