THE PEOPLE\'S CHOICE—DISGUSTING TO HIM! By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: 1 Samuel 8:7 – "And the Lord said to Samuel, 'Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king.'"
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Introduction
Throughout history, God’s people have struggled with the temptation to conform to the world’s ways instead of remaining steadfast in their commitment to Him. The desire to follow worldly trends and adopt carnal solutions often leads to decisions that are contrary to God’s will. These choices result in disastrous consequences, not just for individuals but for entire generations.
This teaching focuses on the danger of choosing according to the flesh and worldly standards, instead of aligning our lives with God’s divine order. It highlights the consequences of rejecting God’s rule, the folly of trusting in human power, and the necessity of returning to Him wholeheartedly.
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The Danger of Rejecting God’s Rule
1 Samuel 8:19-20 – "But the people refused to listen to Samuel. 'No!' they said. 'We want a king over us. Then we will be like all the other nations, with a king to lead us and to go out before us and fight our battles.'"
Rejecting God’s rule over our lives is an act of rebellion rooted in pride and disobedience. When the Israelites demanded a king to rule over them, they turned away from God’s divine leadership. Their choice led to suffering and oppression under the very rulers they insisted upon. Today, many reject God’s authority in favor of worldly ideologies, leading to spiritual decay and bondage.
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The Consequences of Worldly Choices
Jeremiah 17:5 – "This is what the Lord says: 'Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord.'"
Worldly choices bring curses rather than blessings. Trusting in human leaders, systems, or desires above God results in spiritual and physical consequences. These choices often lead to confusion, instability, and generational suffering. Just as the Israelites faced hardship under kings they chose, those who prioritize the world’s ways will reap the bitter fruits of their decisions.
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The Folly of Trusting in Human Power
Isaiah 2:22 – "Stop trusting in mere humans, who have but a breath in their nostrils. Why hold them in esteem?"
Many people place their trust in human leaders, imagining that they hold ultimate power. However, such thinking is foolish, for no man or woman is greater than God. Fear of worldly powers often leads to compromise and spiritual defeat. God alone is sovereign, and His authority surpasses all human rule.
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The Curse of Fleshly Living
Romans 8:6 – "The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace."
Living according to the flesh leads to spiritual death and separation from God. Those who follow their carnal desires, whether in lust, greed, or rebellion, find themselves ensnared in sin. Such choices not only grieve God but also harden the heart, making repentance increasingly difficult.
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The Call to Return to God’s Rule
Deuteronomy 30:19 – "This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live."
God continually calls His people to return to Him and choose His ways over the world’s. Choosing God means rejecting the patterns of sin and embracing His guidance. This choice brings life, blessings, and eternal fellowship with Him.
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Summary
This teaching underscores the importance of aligning our choices with God’s will. Rejecting His rule in favor of worldly desires leads to curses, bondage, and spiritual decay. Trusting in human power or living according to the flesh is a pathway to destruction. Instead, we are called to return to God, embrace His ways, and experience the blessings of His rule.
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Conclusion
The world’s ways may seem appealing, but they are ultimately deceitful and destructive. God’s rule is perfect and leads to life, peace, and eternal security. Let us learn from the mistakes of the past and commit ourselves fully to Him.
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Call to Action
Examine your life today. Are your choices aligned with God’s will, or are they influenced by the world? Turn away from sin, reject worldly patterns, and surrender to God’s authority. Let your life be a reflection of His Kingdom and His glory.
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Final Word of Encouragement
God’s mercy is abundant, and His arms are always open to those who return to Him. No matter how far you have strayed, it is never too late to choose God and align yourself with His perfect will. Trust in His sovereignty and walk boldly in the path He has set before you.
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Prayer of Salvation
Heavenly Father,
I come before You today, acknowledging my sins and my need for Your forgiveness. I repent of every wrong choice I have made, and I ask for Your mercy. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son who died for my sins and rose again for my salvation. I surrender my life to You and invite You to be the Lord and Savior of my life. Help me to walk in obedience and to trust in Your perfect will. Thank You for Your love, grace, and salvation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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