THE CHOICE BETWEEN LIFE AND DEATH: A CALL TO OBEDIENCE By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Deuteronomy 30:19 - "I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live."
________________________________________
Introduction
The world today is filled with chaos, destruction, and moral decay. Many people are walking in deception, blinded by their own pride and rebellion against God. Despite God's desire for mankind to live in peace and righteousness, people have made choices that lead them away from His divine covering. They have embraced self-destruction through their stubbornness and disobedience.
In this article, we will explore the consequences of rejecting God’s wisdom, the dangers of demonic influence, and the importance of standing firm in faith. God desires that we live in truth and holiness, but the choice remains in our hands. Will we walk in obedience, or will we continue down the path of destruction?
________________________________________
The Danger of Pride and Rebellion
Proverbs 16:18 - "Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall."
Many people today are consumed by pride, believing they are self-sufficient and have no need for God. This arrogance leads to rebellion, and rebellion brings destruction. When people refuse to humble themselves before God, they invite chaos into their lives.
God has given clear instructions in His Word, yet the world continues to reject Him. This rejection is not without consequences. Just as Adam and Eve were cast out of the Garden of Eden for their disobedience, those who persist in sin will find themselves separated from God’s blessings.
________________________________________
The Influence of Demonic Forces
Ephesians 6:12 - "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."
The spiritual battle between good and evil is real. Demonic forces have been unleashed upon the earth, influencing people to commit sinful acts. Those who reject God’s protection become easy targets for these forces, leading them further into darkness.
It is critical to remain vigilant and discerning. The enemy works through deception, enticing people with false promises of power, pleasure, and success. However, the end result is always destruction. Believers must stand firm and resist the devil, knowing that God’s power is greater than any force of darkness.
________________________________________
The Consequences of Disobedience
Romans 6:23 - "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
Sin always leads to death—both spiritual and physical. When people choose to live outside of God’s will, they bring unnecessary suffering upon themselves. Many of the calamities we see in the world today are direct consequences of humanity’s rebellion.
Nations are falling into chaos because their leaders have turned away from God’s wisdom. Families are breaking apart due to selfishness and sin. The world is experiencing an increase in violence, immorality, and corruption because people have ignored the truth of God’s Word.
________________________________________
The Call to Righteousness
2 Chronicles 7:14 - "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."
God is calling His people to righteousness. He desires that we walk in holiness and obedience, rejecting the ways of the world. This requires humility and a willingness to surrender to His will.
When believers commit themselves to living righteously, they become lights in the darkness. They serve as examples of God’s love and power, drawing others to Him. True faith is demonstrated through obedience, and those who remain faithful will be rewarded with eternal life.
________________________________________
The Reward of Obedience
John 14:23 - "Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him."
God’s blessings are reserved for those who obey Him. When we choose to walk in His ways, we experience His peace, protection, and provision. While trials may still come, we have the assurance that He is with us, guiding and strengthening us.
Those who choose obedience will not be put to shame. Instead, they will stand firm in faith, knowing that their hope is secure in Christ.
________________________________________
Summary and Conclusion
The world is in a state of moral and spiritual decay due to rebellion against God. Many people have allowed pride and deception to lead them away from His truth. As a result, they have become captives of sin and darkness. However, God’s call to repentance remains open.
Every person has a choice—to walk in obedience and receive life, or to continue in disobedience and face destruction. The decision is ours, but the consequences are eternal. Those who choose Christ will experience His love, guidance, and eternal salvation.
________________________________________
Call to Action
Now is the time to turn to God. Do not wait until it is too late. Seek Him with all your heart, surrender to His will, and live according to His Word. Encourage others to do the same and be a light in this dark world.
________________________________________
Final Word of Encouragement
God has given us the opportunity to choose life. Let us not waste it. Stand firm in faith, resist the enemy, and remain committed to righteousness. No matter how dark the world may become, remember that God’s light will always shine for those who seek Him.
________________________________________
Prayer of Salvation
If you have not yet accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, now is the time. Pray this prayer sincerely:
"Heavenly Father, I come before You, acknowledging that I am a sinner in need of Your mercy. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins and rose again. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. I invite Jesus into my heart to be my Lord and Savior. Help me to live according to Your will. Thank You for Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen."
If you prayed this prayer, welcome to the family of God! Grow in faith, and remain steadfast in your walk with Christ.
