Hearts on Fire: A Call to Divine Passion By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord” (Romans 12:11, NIV).
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Introduction
God desires His people to have hearts on fire for Him, fully dedicated to His Kingdom and purpose. However, many who claim to belong to Him are consumed by worldly desires, seeking fleeting pleasures instead of eternal treasures. This teaching explores the necessity of being aflame with divine passion, obedient to the Holy Spirit, and steadfast in serving God’s purpose. It challenges believers to reject spiritual complacency and reignite their first love for God.
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A Call to Burn with Holy Fire
“For our God is a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:29).
God calls His people to be aflame for Him, reflecting the sacrificial life of Jesus Christ, who was wholly devoted to fulfilling God’s plan. Jesus set an example of consecration, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide Him in obedience. Similarly, believers must continually surrender to God’s will, allowing their hearts to burn with passion for His Kingdom and purpose.
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The Danger of Worldly Desires
“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them” (1 John 2:15).
Worldly desires lead to spiritual adultery and separation from God. Those who pursue vanity and fleeting pleasures are unfaithful to Him and bring sorrow upon themselves. The god of SELF is insatiable, and serving it leads to frustration and spiritual death. Believers must reject worldly trends and remain steadfast in their commitment to God.
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The Harvest is Ready, But the Workers are Few
“The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field” (Matthew 9:37-38).
While the world perishes in sin, many believers ignore the command to preach the Gospel. The harvest is rotting because of disobedience and self-centeredness. God holds each generation accountable for their response to His call. Obedience to the Great Commission is essential for advancing His Kingdom and saving souls.
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The Importance of a Heart Check-Up
“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts” (Psalm 139:23).
Believers must regularly allow the Holy Spirit to examine their hearts and reveal any areas where they have grown cold or complacent. A heart on fire for God remains vigilant, obedient, and willing to make sacrifices for His purpose. Refusing correction leads to spiritual stagnation and loss of passion.
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Stay Alive and Active for God’s Kingdom
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9).
God’s people are called to remain alive and active in advancing His Kingdom. The world’s vanities and idols will crumble, but God’s Kingdom is eternal. Believers must continually pursue divine purpose and let their love for God fuel their obedience and actions.
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The Reward of Burning with Divine Desire
“Whoever has My commands and keeps them is the one who loves Me. The one who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I too will love them and show Myself to them” (John 14:21).
Those who love God through obedience and action are loved by Him and find favor in His sight. Their hearts, set ablaze with divine desire, lead them to experience the joy and fulfillment of His presence.
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Summary
God desires His people to have hearts on fire for His Kingdom, rejecting worldly desires and complacency. By allowing the Holy Spirit to guide and correct them, believers can remain passionate and active in fulfilling God’s purpose. This divine passion leads to joy, favor, and eternal reward.
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Conclusion
A heart on fire for God reflects unwavering love, obedience, and dedication to His purpose. Believers must reject spiritual apathy and rekindle their passion for God daily. As they pursue His Kingdom wholeheartedly, they bring glory to His name and transform lives for eternity.
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Call to Action
Evaluate your spiritual passion and commitment. Allow the Holy Spirit to examine your heart and reveal areas of complacency. Choose to reignite your first love for God, actively pursuing His will and purpose. Let your actions reflect your love for Him and your dedication to His Kingdom.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Remain steadfast and unwavering in your love for God. Let your heart burn with divine passion, knowing that your obedience and dedication bring joy to God’s heart and eternal significance to your life. Keep advancing in His Way, trusting that He will lead you to victory and reward.
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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.
