FAITHFULNESS IN TIMES OF DARKNESS: A CALL TO STAY TRUE TO GOD By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Hebrews 10:23 “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)”
________________________________________
Introduction
In a world increasingly submerged in spiritual darkness, deception, and confusion, there is a clarion call from the Lord to His people to stand firm in faith and remain unshaken. This prophetic message is not merely a word of warning but a divine instruction to live in resolute belief and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. Many have wandered from the path of truth because they have allowed unbelief to take root in their hearts. Faithlessness has led them into envy, bitterness, and spiritual detachment, choosing instead the fleeting pleasures of the world over the eternal life of Christ. This article will expound upon the critical necessity of remaining faithful to God in these perilous times. It is a spiritual roadmap for every believer to keep their trust in the Lord unbroken, regardless of the adversities they face.
________________________________________
The Danger of Unbelief
Hebrews 3:12 “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.”
Unbelief is not a mere lack of trust; it is a dangerous spiritual disease that disconnects us from the life-giving power of God. When individuals abandon their faith, they do not simply fall into neutrality—they often grow accusatory toward God, envious of the wicked, and filled with bitterness. They begin to view the ways of God as burdensome, and soon, the voices of demons sound more reasonable than the voice of the Holy Spirit.
To live in unbelief is to choose darkness over light. It is to reject the incorruptible seed of faith and to align oneself with the counsel of demons. It leads to destruction, spiritual decay, and eventually, eternal separation from God.
________________________________________
The Gift and Growth of Faith
Romans 12:3 “...God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.”
Every believer is given a measure of faith at salvation. This faith is not static; it is designed to grow, to be nurtured, and to produce a rich harvest of righteousness. As we heed the Holy Spirit and obey His leading, our faith is strengthened. The incorruptible way of God becomes clearer and more desirable.
Faith is not meant to be small and weak. It is intended to be robust and enduring, empowering us to stand firm against demonic forces and worldly temptations. By walking in faith, believers escape the corruption of the flesh and walk in spiritual development and maturity.
________________________________________
Faith Versus Carnality
Galatians 5:17 “For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other...”
The end of carnality is death and destruction. Yet many of God’s people continue to entertain the desires of the flesh, weakening their faith and opening doors for demonic influence. To walk by faith is to reject the pleasures of sin and pursue the righteousness of God.
In these days, when perversion and insanity are celebrated by society, believers must resist the pull of the flesh. Faith enables us to see beyond temporal pleasures and recognize the eternal value of obedience and holiness. Our spiritual survival depends on our willingness to abandon carnality and walk in the Spirit.
________________________________________
The Tragedy of Faithlessness in Adversity
Proverbs 24:10 “If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.”
In times of adversity, many who once claimed faith in Christ are now turning away. The pressures of the world, the rule of the wicked, and the abundance of evil have caused many to forsake their hope in God. But true faith is not tested in comfort—it is proven in adversity.
Now more than ever, God is calling His people to come into His presence, to receive His mercy, and to be renewed in their faith. He takes no pleasure in those who draw near with their mouths but have hearts far from Him. The faithful must press in deeper, leaning fully on His promises.
________________________________________
The Power of Truth and Declaration
John 8:32 “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”
In the midst of widespread deception, God is raising up a people who are not ashamed of the truth. These faithful ones are called to declare God’s Word boldly, for it is only the truth that can break the chains of bondage and set souls free.
Nations and peoples who have embraced lies have hardened themselves against righteousness. Many love their chains, preferring captivity to sin over the freedom found in Christ. But we are not called to fellowship with darkness. We are to rebuke it, speak the truth, and move forward with those who hunger for righteousness.
________________________________________
Nurturing the Incorruptible Seed
1 Peter 1:23 “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever.”
The incorruptible seed given to every born-again believer is a treasure. It must be nurtured through prayer, obedience, and the Word of God. While the world chases after temporary riches, we are to value and guard the eternal treasure placed within us.
We must not waste time with those who are antagonistic toward God and His righteousness. The focus must remain on those ready to be transformed, who value their salvation, and who desire to walk in the light.
________________________________________
The Reward of Faithfulness
Psalm 31:23 “O love the Lord, all ye his saints: for the Lord preserveth the faithful...”
God is faithful to those who remain faithful to Him. He will not allow them to be overcome by sin or to fall into destruction. He calls His people to live wholly for Him, keeping their vision and focus fixed on His righteousness.
Faithfulness begets fruitfulness. As we persist in our obedience, God rewards us with spiritual increase, provision, and victory over the enemy. Our lives become testimonies of His sustaining power.
________________________________________
Summary
Faith is not a one-time decision; it is a continuous walk. In these perilous times, many have abandoned their faith, choosing the lies of the enemy over the truth of God. But for those who remain faithful, there is a reward. Faith grows as it is exercised. It strengthens us, keeps us from carnality, and enables us to withstand adversity. God calls us to nurture the incorruptible seed within us, reject deception, and boldly declare His truth.
________________________________________
Conclusion
We are in a time when faith is under attack like never before. But God is raising up a remnant who will not bow to the systems of this world. They will stand firm, hold fast to their confession, and continue in the path of righteousness. Will you be among them? Will you remain faithful when others fall away?
________________________________________
Call to Action
Let this message stir you to examine your walk. Have you allowed doubt to settle in your heart? Are you nurturing the faith God gave you, or are you compromising with the world? Today, renew your commitment to walk by faith. Refuse to be among those who are ashamed of the truth. Declare your trust in God, and live a life that honors Him.
________________________________________
Final Word of Encouragement
No matter how dark the world becomes, you are not alone. God’s mercy is available. His promises are true. And His power is sufficient to keep you. Stay faithful, keep believing, and know that your reward is sure.
________________________________________
Salvation Prayer
Lord Jesus, I come before You today, recognizing my need for salvation. I confess that I have sinned and fallen short of Your glory. I believe that You died on the cross for my sins and rose again for my victory. I repent of all my sins and ask for Your forgiveness.
Come into my heart, be my Lord and Savior. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to walk in faith, truth, and righteousness all the days of my life.
Thank You, Jesus, for saving me. I am now a child of God.
Amen.
