WORTHY OR WORTHLESS? By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: "Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel." – Philippians 1:27 (ESV)
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Introduction
God desires that His people be counted worthy of the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ. To be counted worthy is to live in obedience, gratitude, and reverence for God's will, not conforming to the ways of the world. Unfortunately, many who claim to be His followers are living worthless lives, consumed by the attitudes and behaviors of a fallen world. The choice is clear: will we be found worthy, or will we be deemed worthless before God?
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The Call to Worthiness
"I, therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called." – Ephesians 4:1 (ESV)
To be counted worthy is to walk in alignment with God's calling. This means living a life of faithfulness, holiness, and commitment to the values of the Kingdom of God. It requires daily surrender and obedience to His commands.
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The Worthless: A Reflection of the World
"For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things." – Philippians 3:18-19 (ESV)
Those who live in opposition to God's will are considered worthless in His sight. They have embraced worldly values, ignoring the call to righteousness. These individuals choose selfish ambitions over divine purpose, leading to spiritual ruin.
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The Shaking of the Unfaithful
"Yet once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens. This phrase, 'Yet once more,' indicates the removal of things that are shaken—that is, things that have been made—in order that the things that cannot be shaken may remain." – Hebrews 12:26-27 (ESV)
God is allowing a great shaking in these times. Those who are unfaithful and unwilling to align themselves with Him will be removed like dead branches. The winds of adversity will separate the true believers from the pretenders.
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The Importance of Walking Closer to God
"Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." – James 4:8 (ESV)
Walking closer to God is the only way to remain firm in faith. The enemy constantly seeks to deceive and devour those who are careless in their spiritual journey. A close walk with God ensures His guidance and protection.
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The Dangers of Deception
"For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect." – Matthew 24:24 (ESV)
Many have fallen into deception, led by false teachings and worldly distractions. The enemy's greatest tactic is to blind people from the truth and lure them into spiritual complacency.
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The Joy of Serving God
"Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into His presence with singing!" – Psalm 100:2 (ESV)
Unlike those trapped in darkness, those who remain faithful to God experience His joy and goodness. Serving God brings fulfillment, while serving the world leads to sorrow and despair.
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Summary
The contrast between the worthy and the worthless is evident. Those who honor God in their lives will be counted worthy of His kingdom, while those who reject Him will find themselves lost and broken. God desires that we remain steadfast and devoted, rejecting worldly distractions and embracing the righteousness of Christ.
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Conclusion
The choice is ours: to be counted worthy or worthless. The world offers fleeting pleasures that lead to destruction, but God's way leads to eternal life. Let us strive to live in a way that honors the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, walking in faith, obedience, and righteousness.
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Call to Action
Examine your life today. Are you living in a manner that honors God, or have you conformed to the world? Make a commitment to draw closer to Him, rejecting sin and embracing His truth. Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and live each day in a way that reflects the worthiness of His calling.
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Final Word of Encouragement
God has given you His Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen you. You are not alone in this journey. Whenever you feel weak or uncertain, remember that help is only a prayer away. Stay vigilant, stay faithful, and be counted among those who are worthy in His sight.
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Prayer of Salvation
Jesus, please help me! I know I’m a sinner, and I can’t save myself. But I believe that You died on the cross for me, for my sins. I believe You can give me a new life. I’m truly sorry for everything I’ve done wrong. Please forgive me!
Wash me clean with the blood You shed for me. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to follow You. I choose to turn away from every sin I know of, and I commit my life to You.
Please, Jesus, baptize me with the Holy Spirit, and let me speak in new spiritual tongues as a sign of Your power in my life. Thank You for saving me, for setting me free from sin, from the ways of the world, and from the enemy’s grip.
Thank You, Jesus! Amen.
