THE CALL TO RIGHTEOUSNESS IN TIMES OF TRIBULATION By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." (Proverbs 9:10)
________________________________________
INTRODUCTION
Throughout history, humanity has witnessed the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. The scriptures are filled with accounts of nations and individuals who faced divine judgment due to their disobedience. Today, we are witnessing similar events—plagues, economic hardships, natural disasters, and spiritual decay. These are not mere coincidences; they serve as warnings for us to return to the Lord.
God is calling His people to walk in righteousness and remain under His covering. The world may be facing tribulation, but those who seek Him will experience His protection and provision. This message serves as a reminder that righteousness exalts a nation, but sin brings destruction. Let us heed the call to righteousness and align ourselves with God’s will.
________________________________________
THE WRATH OF GOD AGAINST THE WICKED
"The Lord is known by the judgment He executes; the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands." (Psalm 9:16)
God's judgment is real. When people turn away from Him and choose to follow their own desires, they position themselves for destruction. The proud, the idolaters, and those who commit abominations will face the consequences of their choices. The Lord is just, and His righteousness demands that He deals with sin. As we see calamities increasing in the world, we must recognize them as signs of God’s justice.
________________________________________
THE REWARD OF THE RIGHTEOUS
"The Lord preserves the faithful, but abundantly repays the one who acts in pride." (Psalm 31:23)
While judgment comes upon the wicked, God has a special plan for the righteous. He protects those who fear Him and follow His ways. The Lord wants His people to seek counsel from Him rather than relying on worldly wisdom. When we walk in obedience, He blesses and sustains us. There is great reward for those who remain faithful to Him.
________________________________________
THE CONSEQUENCES OF IGNORING GOD'S CALL
"Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man sows, that shall he also reap." (Galatians 6:7)
The world is experiencing spiritual famine because many have rejected God’s word. Just as physical hunger follows a lack of food, spiritual emptiness follows a rejection of God’s truth. People who indulged in selfishness and ignored the cries of the needy will now face lack and suffering. Those who refuse to hunger for righteousness will be left starving for peace, joy, and hope.
________________________________________
THE CALL TO SEEK GOD’S RIGHTEOUSNESS
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied." (Matthew 5:6)
God desires that His people turn back to Him. When we truly seek Him, we will be filled with His presence and power. The satisfaction that the world offers is temporary, but those who seek the Lord will never lack. If we prioritize God’s righteousness, He will meet all our needs and guide us in His perfect will.
________________________________________
GOD'S JUDGMENT ON HYPOCRISY AND PRIDE
"For judgment will be without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment." (James 2:13)
Many claim to follow Christ but live in hypocrisy. God is exposing the falsehood of those who use His name for personal gain while rejecting His truth. The proud, the deceitful, and those who refuse to repent will face divine justice. However, those who humble themselves before God will find mercy and grace.
________________________________________
THE PRIVILEGE OF WALKING IN GOD'S WAYS
"The Lord will keep you from all evil; He will keep your life." (Psalm 121:7)
There is safety in following God’s ways. Those who remain under His covering will experience peace in the midst of chaos. Though the world may be falling apart, God’s people will be sustained by His presence. We must choose to walk in His ways, forsaking the temptations of the world and clinging to His truth.
________________________________________
SUMMARY
God is calling His people to righteousness. The world is under judgment because of sin, but those who walk in obedience will experience His divine protection and provision. We must hunger for righteousness, reject hypocrisy, and trust in the Lord.
________________________________________
CONCLUSION
The days of complacency are over. God is shaking the world, and His people must rise up in faith. We cannot afford to ignore His call. Now is the time to repent, seek His face, and live in obedience. Those who trust in Him will never be put to shame.
________________________________________
CALL TO ACTION
God is calling you to a deeper relationship with Him. If you have not been walking in righteousness, today is the day to turn back to Him. Repent of your sins, seek His will, and commit to living according to His word. Share this message with others, and let’s encourage one another in faith.
________________________________________
FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
"The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe." (Proverbs 18:10)
No matter what is happening in the world, God remains in control. Those who trust in Him will be safe. Keep your faith in Him, and He will never fail you. Stand firm in righteousness, and He will uphold you with His mighty hand.
________________________________________
PRAYER OF SALVATION
Jesus, please help me! I know I’m a sinner, and I can’t save myself. But I believe that You died on the cross for me, for my sins. I believe You can give me a new life. I’m truly sorry for everything I’ve done wrong. Please forgive me!
Wash me clean with the blood You shed for me. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to follow You. I choose to turn away from every sin I know of, and I commit my life to You.
Please, Jesus, baptize me with the Holy Spirit, and let me speak in new spiritual tongues as a sign of Your power in my life. Thank You for saving me, for setting me free from sin, from the ways of the world, and from the enemy’s grip.
Thank You, Jesus! Amen.
