Whose Team Are You On? By Major Frank Materu
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Key Scripture:
“But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” - Joshua 24:15 (NKJV)
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Introduction
The question posed today is one that each of us must answer: Whose team are you on? Are you fully committed to God's ways, or are you still flirting with the enticements of the world? It is essential for believers to recognize that their hearts and actions must reflect a steadfast commitment to God's Kingdom. In the same way that Joshua and Jesus showed unwavering determination in their missions, we too are called to make a conscious and continuous choice to follow God and reject the allure of worldly distractions.
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The Cost of Double-Mindedness
“A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.” - James 1:8 (NKJV)
A divided heart makes us unreliable and ineffective. When we waver between two choices, we disqualify ourselves from fully participating in God’s mission. Just as Lot’s wife looked back and was turned into a pillar of salt, our tendency to look back at the world’s fleeting promises can lead us to spiritual destruction. Double-mindedness breeds instability and vulnerability to the enemy’s enticements. A heart that is not firmly set on God’s purposes will easily succumb to temptation and betrayal.
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True Commitment in Following Christ
“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” - Luke 9:23 (NKJV)
Christ set the standard for true discipleship: complete surrender. Those who wish to follow Him must forsake their own desires and plans. True commitment requires us to forsake all and place God’s Kingdom above all else. This is not a one-time decision but a daily act of choosing God’s will over our own. If we are to be part of God’s team, we must follow in the footsteps of Jesus, whose life was characterized by unwavering obedience to the Father and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
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The Power of Joshua’s Determination
“But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” - Joshua 24:15 (NKJV)
Joshua’s declaration before the people of Israel is a powerful testament to the importance of making a public and personal commitment to God. He stood firm in his faith, even when surrounded by the pagan practices of the nations in Canaan. Joshua knew that victory and success were only possible through complete allegiance to God’s will. His commitment was not just verbal but translated into action as he led Israel into the promised land. Like Joshua, we must recognize that being part of God’s team means rejecting the ways of the world and standing firm in our devotion to Him.
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The Deception of Self-Love
“But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy.” - 2 Timothy 3:1-2 (NKJV)
One of the most destructive forces in our time is the love of self. When people place their own desires above God’s will, they open themselves up to deception and destruction. This self-centered mindset has permeated every level of society, resulting in moral decay and spiritual blindness. The consequences of choosing self over God are severe and far-reaching, leading to emptiness, confusion, and ultimately, death. We must guard against the temptation to place our own desires and ambitions above our commitment to God’s ways.
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The Path to Victory
“This is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.” - 1 John 5:4 (NKJV)
Victory is assured for those who are fully committed to God’s team. Just as Jesus and Joshua triumphed in their missions, so too will we if we remain steadfast in our faith and obedience. The key to overcoming the world’s enticements is unwavering faith in God and His promises. By walking in the steps of Jesus and staying true to His Word, we will emerge victorious, not by our own strength, but through the power of the Holy Spirit working in us.
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Summary
The question remains: Whose team are you on? Commitment to God requires a daily decision to reject the world’s ways and follow His will. Double-mindedness leads to instability and spiritual destruction. True discipleship involves self-denial, obedience to God, and following the example of Jesus. Like Joshua, we must boldly declare our allegiance to God and reject the ways of the world. The love of self is one of the greatest obstacles to true commitment, and it must be cast aside in favor of a heart fully devoted to God.
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Conclusion
As you reflect on your own commitment, ask yourself: Are you on God’s team? Are you ready to forsake all for His purposes? Victory is reserved for those who are faithful, unwavering in their commitment, and fully devoted to following God’s plan. Do not allow the temptations of the world to sway you from the path of righteousness.
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Call to Action
Choose today whom you will serve. Make a conscious decision to align your heart, mind, and actions with God's will. Reject the ways of the world and embrace the calling to follow Jesus wholeheartedly. Stand firm in your faith and commitment to God’s Kingdom.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Remember, the victory belongs to those who remain steadfast in their faith. Keep your heart set on God’s kingdom, and trust that He will empower you to overcome every obstacle. Stand strong and be confident that you are on the winning team—the team that will experience eternal victory in Christ.
