THE FAITHFUL SHEEP AND THE WANDERING LAMBS By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: John 10:27-28 - "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand."
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Introduction
In every generation, there are those who begin their spiritual journey with faithfulness and devotion, yet along the way, they drift into the snares of the world. The love of temporary pleasures, the deception of false shepherds, and the enticement of sinful gain draw many away from the path of righteousness. God’s desire is that His sheep remain faithful, walk in His truth, and resist the temptations that seek to separate them from His presence. In these perilous times, the urgency of remaining steadfast in faith is more critical than ever. The reality is that those who depart from God’s truth and embrace worldly corruption suffer spiritual devastation. This article explores the dangers of straying from God’s path, the consequences of deception, and the need for believers to remain faithful to their calling.
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The Danger of Straying from God
God does not abandon His sheep, yet many who once served Him have wandered into spiritual desolation. They were once filled with His light, yet they have chosen to follow the world instead of His truth. The scriptures warn us about this danger:
2 Peter 2:20-21 - "For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning."
When believers turn away from God, they become vulnerable to the enemy’s attacks. Instead of seeking refuge in His presence, they chase after the empty promises of the world, which ultimately lead to destruction. It is a tragedy to see many who once proclaimed faith now lost in deception.
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False Shepherds and the Corruption of the Truth
One of the greatest dangers facing God’s people today is the influence of false shepherds. These individuals teach doctrines that encourage worldliness, leading believers astray. They entice people with promises of prosperity and success, diverting them from the true riches found in Christ. Jesus warned about such deceivers:
Matthew 7:15 - "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves."
False teachings lead many to prioritize material wealth over spiritual integrity. Instead of seeking holiness, many seek the fleeting pleasures of this world. Such deception results in believers becoming spiritually blind and disconnected from God’s truth. The call to remain vigilant and discerning is crucial.
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The Battle Between Light and Darkness
God calls His people to walk in the light and not be enticed by the darkness. Yet, many who once knew the truth return to their former sinful ways, believing they are missing out on something. The reality is that nothing in this world can compare to the treasures found in God’s kingdom:
1 John 2:15-16 - "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him."
It is a deception to think that the world offers more than God. The devil uses temptation and false promises to lead believers into destruction. Those who compromise their faith for temporary pleasures end up in spiritual ruin. The struggle between following God’s will and succumbing to worldly temptations is real, but victory comes through unwavering faith in Christ.
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The True Treasures of Heaven
Many believers fall into the trap of chasing after earthly treasures, forgetting that true riches are stored in heaven. Jesus taught that where our treasure is, there our hearts will be also:
Matthew 6:19-20 - "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven."
Those who trust in worldly riches are left empty, while those who invest in God’s kingdom receive eternal rewards. The desire for material gain must never surpass the pursuit of righteousness. True security is found only in Christ, and His promises remain everlasting.
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The Call to Remain Faithful
God desires His people to remain steadfast in their faith, rejecting the lies of the enemy and standing firm in His truth. Those who endure in faith will be rewarded:
James 1:12 - "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him."
As believers, we must be vigilant, resisting sin and remaining true to our calling. The journey of faith is not temporary but requires a lifelong commitment to God’s will.
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Summary
Many believers start strong in faith but later fall into deception and sin due to false teachings, worldly temptations, and spiritual negligence. God calls His people to remain faithful and reject the lies of the enemy. True riches are found in Christ, not in the fading pleasures of the world.
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Conclusion
The Christian walk is a journey that requires dedication, vigilance, and unwavering commitment to God. In these times of great deception, believers must hold fast to the truth and reject anything that leads them away from God’s presence. The call to remain faithful is urgent, for only those who endure will receive the eternal reward.
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Call to Action
If you have drifted from God’s path, now is the time to return. Reject the false promises of the world and recommit your life to Christ. Seek His guidance, immerse yourself in His Word, and surround yourself with true believers who will encourage you in faith.
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Final Word of Encouragement
God’s love is unchanging, and He desires for all His children to remain in His light. If you stay faithful, He will protect, guide, and bless you. No matter how far you have strayed, His mercy is available. Choose Him today, and He will lead you to eternal life.
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Prayer of Salvation
If you have never accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, or if you want to recommit your life to Him, pray this prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come before You, acknowledging that I have sinned and strayed from Your ways. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son, who died for my sins and rose again. I ask for Your forgiveness and invite Jesus into my heart as my Lord and Savior. Help me to live a life that pleases You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, and guide me in Your truth. Thank You for Your love and mercy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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May this message strengthen your faith and encourage you to remain steadfast in God’s truth. Amen.
