The Ride of Transformation: Abiding Through Twists, Turns, and Triumphs By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
“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.”
— Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV)
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Introduction
As we step into a new year and season of divine purpose, God is calling His people to a deeper level of trust, awareness, and surrender. Life, as He reveals, is not a flat and straight path. Rather, it is a ride—filled with twists, turns, surprises, and challenges. But it is also adorned with beautiful views, unexpected victories, and supernatural experiences that only come when we walk with God. In this prophetic message, the Lord invites His people to embrace the uncertainties of the journey not with fear, but with faith, humility, and unwavering devotion.
God reminds us that the days ahead will expose both the glory of His Kingdom and the demonic forces at work in the world. The enemy’s deception will try to detour many into destruction. But those who remain on The Ride—God’s divine journey led by the Holy Spirit—will be preserved, empowered, and full of joy. This lesson unpacks the prophetic insights for the year ahead, with scriptural anchors, spiritual strategies, and encouragement to stay faithful no matter what comes.
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THE RIDE IS NOT LINEAR: STAY FLEXIBLE UNDER THE SPIRIT’S LEADING
“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.”
— Psalm 37:23 (NKJV)
God makes it clear: we cannot cement our plans if we truly want to follow the Spirit. The Ride ahead will be full of unexpected events—some exhilarating, others distressing. But each one is part of God’s design to shape, refine, and grow us. Many believers miss their blessings because they try to control the journey. Instead, we are to stay flexible, attentive, and yielded to the Spirit’s prompting.
When we release our control, we enter a place of supernatural grace where even the hard turns become highways to destiny. Trusting God means embracing the unknown with the confidence that He is driving.
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REJOICING IN THE MIDST OF TROUBLE: THE ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NKJV)
The Lord encourages His people not to fear when danger appears or the road seems rough. Even in the face of trials, those who maintain the attitude of gratitude are those who ride in peace. Rejoicing is not denial—it is a declaration of faith in God’s power to keep us.
This year, as you pass through metaphorical storms, dangers, and curves, resist the temptation to panic. Instead, give thanks, knowing that God is with you in every part of the journey. Gratitude keeps the heart soft, the vision clear, and the spirit in alignment with Heaven.
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THE DECAY OF THE WORLD: DO NOT RIDE ALONE
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
— Romans 12:2 (NKJV)
The world continues to boast of its “advancements,” yet it is decaying morally, spiritually, and socially. Many try to ride alone—without God—assuming they are strong enough. But these are the ones who crash, wreck, and curse God for their own destruction.
The Lord warns that living without Him is living without shelter from the storms. The Ride with God includes divine protection, spiritual insight, and enduring hope. Do not be lured by the illusion of independence. Walk in humility, stay dependent on God, and allow Him to be your strength.
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A MERCIFUL GOD IN A BROKEN WORLD
“The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.”
— Psalm 103:8 (NKJV)
Even those who have made wrecks of their lives are not beyond hope. In His mercy, God promises to lift up the broken if they call upon Him in humility. The message of this season is one of divine restoration. Many who have strayed will find healing as they cry out.
The Church must be ready to receive and disciple those returning from dark paths. Our God specializes in rebuilding from ruins, and this year, He is extending compassion to the desperate. Let us not be judgmental, but joyful as we witness His redemptive power.
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THE DANGERS OF PRIDE: HUMILITY IS THE HIGHWAY TO LIFE
“God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”
— James 4:6 (NKJV)
Pride intoxicates people with a false sense of security and perfection. But pride leads to spiritual estrangement and ultimate destruction. The Lord is warning: proud fools will be exposed and will face the consequences of their arrogant ways.
Let us choose the way of humility. Walk softly, acknowledge your dependence on God, and be willing to repent. The humble will be lifted and celebrated in this season. The proud will descend into torment, hearing their own defiance replayed eternally.
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THE SEPARATION OF THE RIGHTEOUS AND THE REBELLIOUS
“And you will again discern between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve Him.”
— Malachi 3:18 (NKJV)
In the days ahead, we will witness a divine separation. God will clearly expose the “diversities of the damned” and the “perversions of the proud.” Those who have aligned with darkness will be revealed, and the faithful will shine even brighter.
While some cling to the sewers of sin, others will rise out of them into the glorious light of salvation. This is not a time to compromise or flirt with rebellion. Choose your side, and stand firm.
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STAY IN THE RIGHT LANE: WALK IN THE SPIRIT
“If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.”
— Galatians 5:25 (NKJV)
To stay on The Ride, we must allow the Spirit to lead every part of our journey. God’s Word and Spirit are our compass, keeping us from veering into deception. As the world grows more chaotic, clarity comes only from abiding in Him.
When you remain in the Spirit, you’ll avoid the traps of pride, fear, and confusion. You’ll stay in the “right lane” of life and bear witness to God’s Kingdom no matter where the ride takes you. Let the Spirit lead, and you’ll arrive safely.
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Summary
The Ride ahead is a prophetic picture of the journey God is calling His people into this year. It is not a ride of comfort and predictability, but of growth, refining, and glory. Twists, turns, and troubles will come—but so will testimonies, transformation, and triumph. We are urged to remain humble, obedient, Spirit-led, and deeply anchored in God’s Word.
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Conclusion
This year is not just another cycle of days—it is a divine assignment. You are not to fear the road ahead, but to embrace it with joy, trust, and an unwavering focus on the Lord. As you ride with God, you are guaranteed His guidance, His presence, and His protection. The world will continue in moral decay, but you are set apart for His purposes.
Let your life be a testimony of surrender, of gratitude, and of power in the Holy Spirit.
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Call to Action
Stay in prayer. Immerse yourself in the Word. Surround yourself with godly counsel. Avoid the enticements of pride and independence. Daily ask the Holy Spirit to take the wheel. Be prepared to testify of God’s faithfulness on The Ride. Share this message and encourage others to stay the course.
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Final Word of Encouragement
The Ride with God is not easy, but it is glorious. Each twist is a setup for a testimony. Each storm is a platform for His power. Each challenge is a classroom for your growth. You are not alone. God is with you. Stay in the vehicle. Rejoice in the journey. Greater things are ahead!
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Salvation Prayer
Dear Lord Jesus,
I acknowledge that I have sinned and fallen short of Your glory. I believe that You died on the cross for my sins and rose again for my salvation. Today, I surrender my life to You. Come into my heart, be my Lord and Savior. Forgive me, cleanse me, and fill me with Your Holy Spirit. Guide me on The Ride You have prepared for me. From this day forward, I choose to follow You. Thank You for saving me. Amen.
