CARELESS or CAREFUL By Major Frank Materu
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Key Scripture
"The wise man fears and departs from evil, but the fool rages and is self-confident." (Proverbs 14:16, NKJV)
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Introduction
In a world where many are living in careless ease, the consequences of making poor choices are often ignored, leading to spiritual and emotional captivity. God desires His people to live with care and respect, following His will in all things. By making careful decisions, we honor Him and walk in His safety, avoiding the traps set by demons that lead to despair and destruction.
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The Dangers of Carelessness
“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who heeds counsel is wise.” (Proverbs 12:15, NKJV)
When people live without concern for their actions and choices, they open themselves up to the influence of demons. Carelessness breeds misery, as individuals fall into cycles of sin and addiction, perpetuating their own suffering. Those who reject God's warnings and refuse to make careful decisions become trapped, unable to escape the consequences of their own folly. These individuals find themselves in despair, unable to experience the peace and joy that come from living in alignment with God's will.
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The Importance of Careful Choices
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” (Psalm 32:8, NKJV)
Living with care means making choices that align with God's purpose and will. When we choose to walk in His ways, we find guidance, safety, and peace. The careful person seeks God's wisdom in every decision, knowing that each choice can either bring them closer to God's protection or lead them into the snares of the enemy. By living carefully, we avoid the traps of the world and remain safe under God's care.
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The Consequences of Rejecting God's Guidance
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23, NKJV)
Those who reject God's guidance and live carelessly face inevitable consequences. The world offers temporary pleasures that lead to permanent spiritual death. Sin leads to hopelessness, despair, and eternal separation from God. It is a tragedy that many choose the fleeting pleasures of the world over the eternal security and joy found in following God's will. The refusal to heed God's warnings results in a life of continuous misery and loss.
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The Covering of God's Protection
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe.” (Proverbs 18:10, NKJV)
In times of chaos and confusion, the righteous can find safety in the Lord. By making careful, God-directed choices, we are shielded from the chaos of the world and the attacks of the enemy. God offers His protection and covering, providing peace and security to those who seek His guidance. When we live with care and mindfulness, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, we are safe from the storms of life.
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Avoiding the Temptations of the World
“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” (1 John 2:15, NKJV)
The world is filled with distractions and temptations that lead many astray. Carelessness often comes from being enticed by these worldly pleasures. However, those who are careful in their decisions choose to reject the temptations of the world and stay focused on God's plan. By doing so, they avoid the misery and destruction that come from living for the things of this world. The careful believer resists the enticements of the devil and stays true to God's calling.
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Humility as the Key to Protection
“Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders; yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” (1 Peter 5:5, NKJV)
The proud person trusts in their own strength, but the humble person submits to God’s guidance. Humility is essential for making careful choices, as it involves recognizing our need for God's wisdom and direction. When we humble ourselves before God, He grants us the grace and wisdom to make decisions that align with His will, ensuring our safety and success. Humility allows us to walk in God's protection, avoiding the traps set by the enemy.
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The Ark of Safety
“The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” (Psalm 18:2, NKJV)
In the midst of a world filled with sin and destruction, God offers us an ark of safety. Those who remain under His protection, making careful choices, are shielded from the storms of life. By staying close to God and following His guidance, we can avoid the pitfalls that many fall into and experience the peace and security He provides. The ark of safety is found in living under the covering of God's Spirit, walking in humility, and making choices that honor Him.
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The Call to Live Carefully
“The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.” (Proverbs 22:3, ESV)
God calls us to be prudent in our actions, to carefully consider the consequences of our choices. The careful person is mindful of the dangers around them and takes steps to avoid them. By living with intention and purpose, following God’s guidance, we can avoid the pitfalls that lead to destruction. The careless will suffer for their lack of attention to God’s will, but the wise will walk in His way and be kept safe.
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Summary
Living carelessly leads to misery, despair, and spiritual captivity. It is through careful, intentional choices that we can avoid the snares of the enemy and walk in God's protection and peace. God offers His covering to those who choose His will over their own and live in humility. As we follow His guidance, we find safety, joy, and the assurance of His mercy and miracles.
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Conclusion
The choice between living carelessly or carefully is a matter of life and death. Careless choices lead to destruction, while careful decisions, made in line with God’s will, bring peace and security. Let us be mindful of the choices we make, trusting in God’s wisdom and guidance. In doing so, we will experience the fullness of His protection and the joy that comes from living in His presence.
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Call to Action
Reflect on your daily choices. Are you living carelessly or carefully? Seek God’s wisdom and guidance in every decision, and trust that He will protect you as you follow His will. Choose today to live carefully, under His protection, and experience the safety and joy that come from being in His care.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Be thankful that God offers you His guidance and protection. Do not fall prey to the temptations and distractions of the world. Instead, live carefully, mindful of His will, and enjoy the safety, peace, and joy that come from living under His care.
