God Desires His People to Follow Him By Major Frank Materu


Key Scripture:

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."

– Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV)



Introduction

God finds great joy in His people when they choose to follow Him wholeheartedly. He desires a relationship built on trust, obedience, and faith. This lesson explores how following God pleases Him and brings transformation in our lives. It emphasizes the importance of gratitude, reliance on His strength, and obedience to His Word.


1. God Rejoices in His People Who Obey Him

When God's people follow Him, they become a source of joy to Him. True obedience requires trust and gratitude. Gratitude pleases God and aligns our hearts with His purpose.

  1. Key Scripture:
  2. "In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
  3. Reflection:
  4. Avoid the mistakes of the Israelites who wandered in the wilderness for 40 years due to disobedience and lack of faith. Instead, trust God, even when circumstances seem uncertain.


2. Look to God for Strength

God provides strength for His people to overcome challenges. Often, unanswered prayers stem from praying with selfish motives. Prayers focused on God's Kingdom are always answered.

  1. Key Scripture:
  2. "But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint." – Isaiah 40:31
  3. Reflection:
  4. Pray for God's will to manifest in your life and for the advancement of His Kingdom. Trust in His provision, knowing He meets every need.


3. God Desires Authentic Worship, Not Show

God rejects vain displays of religiosity. He values humility and hearts that genuinely seek Him. Those who prioritize their own kingdoms over His will lose His guidance.

  1. Key Scripture:
  2. "The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the prayer of the upright pleases him." – Proverbs 15:8 (NIV)
  3. Reflection:
  4. Avoid prideful acts of religiosity. Seek God's counsel and wisdom in all things.


4. Do Not Withhold from Those in Need

God calls His people to share His blessings with others. Withholding spiritual or physical sustenance from the needy grieves Him.

  1. Key Scripture:
  2. "He who has pity on the poor lends to the Lord, and He will pay back what he has given." – Proverbs 19:17
  3. Reflection:
  4. Be generous with the blessings God has entrusted to you. Share the Bread of Life so that others may find hope and salvation.


5. Separation Between the Precious and the Vile

God is raising a people set apart for His purposes. He is calling His children to pursue righteousness and leave behind the corruption of the world.

  1. Key Scripture:
  2. "Therefore, come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you." – 2 Corinthians 6:17
  3. Reflection:
  4. Commit fully to God, abandoning self-reliance and worldly distractions. He desires people who trust Him completely.


Summary

God desires a people who:

  1. Follow Him with gratitude and faith.
  2. Seek His strength and pray according to His will.
  3. Worship authentically and humbly.
  4. Share His blessings with others.
  5. Pursue righteousness and remain set apart.



Conclusion

When we follow God wholeheartedly, we bring joy to Him, experience His blessings, and fulfill His purposes on earth. Obedience and trust are the keys to walking in His perfect plan.


Action Points

  1. Examine Your Heart: Are you fully trusting and obeying God?
  2. Pray with Purpose: Focus on Kingdom-driven prayers.
  3. Practice Gratitude: Thank God daily for His blessings.
  4. Serve Others: Share your resources and spiritual knowledge generously.
  5. Stay Separated: Avoid worldly distractions and pursue holiness.


Way Forward

  1. Commit to daily Bible study and prayer to strengthen your relationship with God.
  2. Surround yourself with a community of believers who encourage faith and obedience.
  3. Live as a light, reflecting God's love and grace in all you do.

Remember: God delights in those who walk uprightly and depend on Him for all things. Trust in Him, and He will direct your paths!