CAN YOU HEAR JESUS KNOCKING? By Major Frank Materu
Main Scripture:
"Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me." (Revelation 3:20 NKJV)
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Introduction
In a world filled with distractions, it’s easy to overlook the gentle knock of Jesus on our hearts. He knocks, desiring intimate fellowship with each of us, yet many are too preoccupied with the noise of the world to hear Him. This article explores the importance of tuning our hearts to His voice, prioritizing Him above all else, and responding to His call each day. When we make space for Jesus, we are led into the abundant life He offers.
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Listening Above the Noise
In today’s world, the clamor of the media, the allure of materialism, and the chaos of daily life drown out the voice of Jesus. Too many start their day absorbed by the world’s noise—social media, news, or the demands of life—without taking time to listen for Jesus. The Bible warns us not to be like those who prefer the world's voices over the voice of God. When we fail to prioritize Him, we invite darkness into our lives.
"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:33 NKJV)
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The Danger of Neglecting Jesus
When we neglect to listen for Jesus, we risk becoming absorbed in our own desires and pursuits. We forget that true life and purpose come from Him, and we begin to pursue the fleeting pleasures of the world. The Bible warns that when we are consumed with worldly cares, we become casualties in the spiritual battle.
"For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?" (Mark 8:36 NKJV)
Choosing the world over Christ leads to spiritual death and separation from God. This is why we must be vigilant and not allow the things of this world to steal our affection and attention from our Savior.
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Spiritual Adultery and Its Consequences
Many who claim to be believers have fallen into what the Bible calls "spiritual adultery." They have become entangled with the world and its sinful desires, choosing to live in compromise rather than obedience. Such people may deceive themselves into thinking they are pleasing to God, but the reality is that they have forsaken their first love.
"You adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God?" (James 4:4 NKJV)
God sees the hearts of those who have chosen the world over Him. He does not take pleasure in those who turn away from Him, choosing to live in spiritual complacency. We must be careful not to fall into this trap, as it leads to spiritual emptiness and loss.
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The Remnant Who Stand True
Despite the compromises of this generation, God will always have a faithful remnant who will stand true to Him, no matter the cost. These are the ones who reject the world and its enticements, choosing to follow Jesus with all their hearts. They are blessed because they prioritize God’s Kingdom above all else.
"For many are called, but few are chosen." (Matthew 22:14 NKJV)
This remnant is not moved by the pressures of the world but remains steadfast, obeying God’s commands and walking in His light. They are the true followers of Christ, and it is through their obedience that God’s purposes are accomplished on earth.
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The Abundant Life in Christ
God desires for His people to live in the abundance of life that He has promised. This abundance comes not from worldly success or possessions, but from a relationship with Jesus Christ. When we listen for His voice, open the door of our hearts to Him, and walk in obedience to His Word, we experience the fullness of life that He offers.
"I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." (John 10:10 NKJV)
Living in the light of Christ’s love and truth leads to peace, joy, and fulfillment that cannot be found in the world. We must choose to open the door to Him every day, allowing Him to guide us into the abundant life He has prepared for us.
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Summary
In a world full of distractions, Jesus continues to knock at the door of our hearts, seeking fellowship with us. However, many are too distracted by the noise of the world to hear Him. Neglecting to listen for His voice leads to spiritual compromise and separation from His purposes. But for those who choose to stand firm in obedience to Him, there is a promise of eternal life and abundant blessings.
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Conclusion
Jesus is knocking, but the question is: will we hear Him? In these challenging times, we must prioritize His voice above all else, responding with a heart of obedience. When we do, we open the door to His love, His life, and His purposes. Let us remain steadfast, refusing to be swayed by the distractions of this world, and instead focus on the eternal riches that come from knowing and following Jesus Christ.
