GOD\'S PEOPLE WASTE HIS TREASURES ON THE WAYS OF THE HEATHEN By Major Frank Materu
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Scripture Reference: "Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him." (1 John 2:15, ESV)
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Introduction
In a world driven by materialism, self-indulgence, and the pursuit of ungodly ways, God’s people often find themselves entangled in the snares of worldly desires. This message is a divine call to reflect on how the gifts, blessings, and treasures that God bestows upon His people are misused when they deviate from His purpose. As followers of Christ, we are called to be faithful stewards, honoring God with what He has given us. However, when we stray, the consequences are evident—spiritual stagnation, divine wrath, and ultimately separation from God’s favor. This teaching seeks to illuminate the critical need for obedience and the dangers of turning to the ways of the heathen.
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The Gifts of God and Their Intended Purpose
God, in His infinite mercy, grants His people abundant blessings—both spiritual and material. These gifts are meant to glorify Him, strengthen His Kingdom, and serve as a testimony to the lost. "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." (James 1:17, ESV). Yet, instead of using these treasures to fulfill His purpose, many misuse and abuse them. They squander the provision meant for Kingdom-building on selfish desires, failing to represent the righteousness of God.
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The Consequences of Misusing God’s Treasures
When God’s people turn away from His intended path, they bring upon themselves unnecessary hardships and divine correction. "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice." (Proverbs 12:15, ESV). Disobedience leads to spiritual barrenness, and the neglect of God's commission results in divine dissatisfaction. Instead of walking in obedience, many chase after the ways of the heathen, adopting practices that grieve the Holy Spirit. Such actions are not only unfaithful but also invite God’s wrath.
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The Danger of Adopting Heathen Practices
The allure of worldly practices often draws God's people away from Him. These practices, rooted in idolatry and rebellion, are contrary to the holiness God demands. "You shall not follow the crowd to do evil; nor shall you testify in a dispute so as to turn aside after many to pervert justice." (Exodus 23:2, NKJV). When believers abandon God’s standards and pursue the culture of the ungodly, they fail in their witness and become stumbling blocks to others.
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God’s Call for Maturity and Obedience
God desires His people to grow in maturity and fulfill their divine mandate. This requires accountability, responsibility, and steadfastness in His ways. "When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things." (1 Corinthians 13:11, NKJV). Immaturity and self-centeredness have no place in the life of a believer. God calls His people to rise above childish ways, embracing spiritual maturity and becoming true ambassadors of His Kingdom.
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The Wrath of God Upon the Disobedient
God’s patience is not infinite. When His people persist in rebellion, they subject themselves to His righteous judgment. "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness." (Romans 1:18, NKJV). The Scriptures make it clear that those who refuse to repent and return to God’s ways will face His discipline.
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Summary
This teaching serves as a stern warning to all who claim to belong to God. The misuse of His treasures, the pursuit of worldly practices, and the refusal to mature spiritually are grave errors that lead to divine displeasure. God’s people must realign their lives with His purposes, using His gifts to glorify Him and fulfill His commission.
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Conclusion
God’s blessings are sacred, entrusted to us for the advancement of His Kingdom. Misusing these treasures not only dishonors Him but also diminishes our witness to the world. Let us repent of our failures, renew our commitment to Him, and walk in obedience, reflecting His glory.
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Call to Action
Examine your heart and actions today. Are you using God’s blessings for His glory, or are you wasting them on worldly pursuits? Commit to honoring God with all that He has given you. Seek His guidance and strive to mature in your walk with Him.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Take heart, for God is merciful and willing to restore those who repent and seek His ways. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9, NKJV). Trust in Him, walk in obedience, and experience the fullness of His blessings. May you be strengthened and guided to fulfill His divine purpose in your life. Amen.
