Where Are Those Meant to Lament Before God in This Wicked Age? By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: "So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one." (Ezekiel 22:30, NKJV)
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Introduction
In this age of unprecedented wickedness, moral decay, and rebellion against God, the need for intercessors who lament before the Lord is greater than ever. Yet, where are those who were called to cry out on behalf of the nation, their families, and the Church? Where are those who bear the burden of interceding for mercy, for repentance, and for restoration? Sadly, many have abandoned this sacred calling, leaving the land vulnerable to the wrath of God. This lesson explores the consequences of neglecting the ministry of lamentation and calls us back to a posture of repentance and intercession before God.
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The Call to Stand in the Gap
From the earliest days, God has sought men and women willing to intercede for others. "If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14, NKJV). The calling to stand in the gap is not just for pastors, prophets, or spiritual leaders; it is for everyone who claims to be a follower of Christ. Yet, many have forsaken this duty, choosing instead to pursue worldly pleasures and false security.
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The Tragedy of Neglecting Lamentation
When those called to lament turn away, the consequences are dire. "They have turned their backs to Me and not their faces; though I taught them, rising up early and teaching them, yet they have not listened to receive instruction." (Jeremiah 32:33, NKJV). Instead of pleading for God’s mercy, many have embraced the ways of the heathen, indulging in idolatry, immorality, and pride. This spiritual adultery stirs up God’s wrath, leading to devastation and judgment upon the land.
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The Consequences of Abandoning the Call
When God’s people fail to intercede, the land is left to suffer under His righteous judgment. "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness." (Romans 1:18, NKJV). In their disobedience, they align themselves with the enemies of God, becoming complicit in the sins they should have been lamenting.
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God’s Response to Faithful Lamentation
Even in the midst of wrath, God’s mercy is available to those who turn back to Him in sincere repentance. "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite heart—these, O God, You will not despise." (Psalm 51:17, NKJV). He hears the cries of those who lament over sin and seek His intervention. Faithful lamentation has the power to delay judgment and bring healing and restoration.
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The Need for a Revival of Lamentation
The Church must rise to its responsibility of intercession and lamentation. "Let the priests, who minister to the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar; let them say, ‘Spare Your people, O Lord, and do not give Your heritage to reproach, that the nations should rule over them.’" (Joel 2:17, NKJV). A revival of lamentation requires humility, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to stand in the gap.
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Summary
The ministry of lamentation is a sacred calling that many have forsaken in this wicked age. The consequences of neglecting this duty are evident in the widespread moral decay and the escalation of God’s wrath. However, God remains merciful to those who return to Him with broken hearts, willing to cry out on behalf of the land.
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Conclusion
Now is the time to answer the call to lamentation. Let us repent of our neglect and intercede for the sins of our families, communities, and nations. The Lord is seeking those who will stand in the gap—will you be among them?
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Call to Action
Dedicate time daily to intercede for the nation. Confess the sins of the land and seek God’s mercy. Encourage others to join in prayer and fasting for revival and restoration. Share the urgency of lamentation in your church and community, inspiring a movement of intercession.
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Final Word of Encouragement
"The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth." (Psalm 145:18, NKJV). Be encouraged that your cries are heard in heaven. Even in the midst of a wicked generation, God honors the prayers of the righteous. Stand firm in your calling, and trust that He will work through you to bring healing to the land.
