GOD HATES STUBBORNNESS! By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
"But they refused to obey and were not mindful of the wonders that you performed among them, but they stiffened their neck and appointed a leader to return to their slavery in Egypt. But you are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and did not forsake them." (Nehemiah 9:17, ESV)
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Introduction
God's hatred for stubbornness is evident throughout His Word. Stubbornness is a willful resistance to His authority, commands, and ways. It is deeply rooted in pride, rebellion, and self-will. Stubbornness, especially among those who claim to be His people, is a great offense to God and a hindrance to His purpose. In this teaching, we will explore God's perspective on stubbornness, its consequences, and how believers can overcome this destructive force.
In a generation plagued by disobedience and pride, God's call is clear: His people must declare war on stubbornness. This teaching urges us to forsake willful resistance and choose the path of obedience, humility, and submission to God. Let us heed His voice, for stubbornness leads to destruction, but obedience leads to life and favor.
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God’s Hatred for Stubbornness
"But if you refuse and rebel, you shall be eaten by the sword; for the mouth of the Lord has spoken." (Isaiah 1:20, ESV)
Stubbornness is not merely a character flaw; it is a sin that God abhors. When men and women harden their hearts and refuse to yield to God's will, they align themselves with rebellion and pride, both of which God detests.
God’s hatred for stubbornness is not arbitrary. It stems from His desire for His people to walk in His ways and receive His blessings. Stubbornness rejects God’s authority and insists on self-will, which leads to spiritual ruin and separation from Him. Throughout history, God's wrath has been revealed against the stubborn and rebellious, as He desires His people to forsake their ways and return to Him.
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The Consequences of Stubbornness
"For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and presumption is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has also rejected you from being king." (1 Samuel 15:23, ESV)
Stubbornness leads to devastating consequences. It blinds individuals to the truth, causing them to persist in disobedience. Those who stubbornly resist God’s commands ultimately face His judgment and wrath. The Bible is filled with examples of people and nations who suffered because of their stubbornness, from Israel's rebellion in the wilderness to the downfall of proud kings like Saul.
Stubbornness also invites spiritual bondage. When individuals willfully resist God’s Word, they open the door to demonic influences that torment and oppress them. Such individuals may even lose their peace, sanity, and spiritual vitality.
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Stubbornness as Spiritual Perversion
"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth." (Romans 1:18, ESV)
Stubbornness is a form of spiritual perversion. It twists the truth of God’s Word, leading individuals to believe lies. Those who are stubborn often justify their rebellion with excuses, distort God’s Word to fit their desires, and refuse to repent, even when confronted with their wrongs.
This perversion grieves God deeply. It reflects a heart that prioritizes self-will over submission to His authority. Such behavior mocks God’s grace and mercy, resulting in separation from Him.
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Overcoming Stubbornness Through Obedience
"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." (James 4:7, ESV)
To overcome stubbornness, believers must willfully submit to God and choose obedience over rebellion. This requires humility, repentance, and a willingness to align with His Word. God’s Spirit empowers us to resist the forces of pride, rebellion, and self-will that fuel stubbornness.
Obedience is not a passive act; it is an active declaration of war against stubbornness. It involves surrendering our will to God and allowing Him to transform our hearts and minds. By choosing obedience, we experience the peace, favor, and blessings of walking in God’s will.
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Summary
Stubbornness is a destructive force that leads to rebellion, spiritual perversion, and separation from God. It blinds individuals to the truth and opens the door to judgment and wrath. However, God has provided a way of escape through humility, repentance, and obedience. Those who declare war on stubbornness and choose to walk in God’s ways will experience His favor and life.
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Conclusion
God hates stubbornness because it opposes His authority and hinders His purpose. In this generation, where pride and rebellion abound, God calls His people to forsake stubbornness and embrace humility and obedience. Stubbornness leads to destruction, but obedience leads to life and peace. Let us, therefore, declare war on stubbornness and walk in submission to God.
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Call to Action
Examine your heart today. Are there areas where stubbornness has taken root? Surrender them to God and commit to walking in obedience. Declare war on pride, rebellion, and self-will. Seek God’s guidance and allow His Spirit to transform you into a vessel of humility and submission.
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Final Word of Encouragement
"If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14, ESV)
God’s mercy is still available for those who repent and turn from their stubbornness. His desire is to restore and bless His people. Choose today to walk in obedience, for in His will, there is life, peace, and everlasting joy.
