CARING OR CARELESS? By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Matthew 7:21 - "Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven."
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Introduction
God is calling His people to self-examination—are we caring about His will, or are we careless in our spiritual walk? Many profess faith in Christ, yet their actions reflect a selfish pursuit of personal desires rather than God’s divine purpose. The attitude of gratitude and obedience to God is what separates the true followers of Christ from those who only pay lip service. Those who refuse to submit to God’s will often blame others for their failures, remaining spiritually immature and unwilling to take responsibility for their own growth.
In a world that promotes self-centeredness and personal ambition, God’s desire is for His people to be diligent, faithful, and committed to His divine plan. Jesus Christ, our ultimate example, lived a life of absolute obedience to the Father, despite opposition and persecution. Are we willing to follow His example, or are we among those who resist, complain, and expect to have things our way? This message is a call to spiritual accountability—to abandon carelessness and embrace a life of devoted service to God.
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Are You Seeking God’s Will or Your Own?
Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."
Many people claim to love God, yet they prioritize their own desires above His will. Instead of earnestly seeking His purpose, they chase personal ambitions and then question God when things go wrong. True discipleship requires surrender—putting God’s will above our own. Are we living for His glory, or are we self-seeking?
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The Danger of Blaming Others for Spiritual Failure
Galatians 6:7 - "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap."
Those who refuse to take responsibility for their own spiritual walk often blame others for their struggles. They criticize messengers of truth, reject correction, and remain stagnant in their faith. Such individuals refuse to grow spiritually and, as a result, face the consequences of their own rebellion. We must be willing to acknowledge our own shortcomings and seek transformation through Christ.
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The Attitude of Gratitude vs. The Spirit of Entitlement
1 Thessalonians 5:18 - "In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
A grateful heart pleases God, while an ungrateful spirit leads to resentment and discontentment. Many believers behave like spoiled children—demanding blessings but refusing to submit to God's will. Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to the abundant grace God has already provided. True worship begins with a thankful heart.
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Jesus: Our Example of Diligence and Faithfulness
John 4:34 - "Jesus said to them, ‘My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work.'"
Unlike many who are careless in their faith, Jesus remained steadfast in His obedience to God. He endured persecution, opposition, and hardship without wavering. He did not seek His own comfort but was committed to fulfilling the mission given by the Father. If we are truly His followers, we must imitate His diligence and faithfulness.
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The Responsibility of True Shepherds
John 10:11 - "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep."
God condemns religious leaders who exploit His people for personal gain while neglecting their spiritual needs. Many so-called shepherds demand financial contributions yet fail to offer genuine spiritual guidance. True shepherds are called to lead God’s people into righteousness, healing, and deliverance—not into bondage and deception.
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God’s Healing and Deliverance Are Available
Isaiah 53:5 - "But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed."
Despite advancements in modern medicine, true healing comes from God. Many people remain in spiritual and physical bondage because they have not been taught to seek divine healing through faith in Christ. God’s miracle-working power is still available today for those who will trust in Him.
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Summary
God calls us to choose between being caring or careless in our walk with Him. Those who care for His will live in obedience, gratitude, and faith, while those who are careless pursue their own desires and refuse accountability. Jesus Christ set the ultimate example of faithfulness, and we must follow in His steps.
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Conclusion
God is searching for those who will genuinely seek His will and walk in obedience. Carelessness in spiritual matters leads to destruction, while diligence in serving God leads to eternal rewards. Every believer must make a choice—will you be among those who are faithful, or will you be among those who are careless and disobedient?
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Call to Action
1. Examine your heart—are you truly seeking God’s will?
2. Repent from any spiritual carelessness and commit to faithful obedience.
3. Seek God’s guidance daily through prayer and His Word.
4. Trust in the healing and delivering power of Jesus Christ.
5. Encourage others to live in gratitude and devotion to God.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Isaiah 40:31 - "But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint."
God has a great plan for your life. Do not be discouraged by the challenges around you. Instead, remain steadfast, seek His will, and trust that He will lead you into His perfect purpose.
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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.
