THE PATHWAY OF LIFE: CHOOSING TRUTH OVER DECEPTION By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: John 14:6
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
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INTRODUCTION
Life is a journey filled with choices. Every decision we make either leads us closer to God or further away from Him. Throughout history, we see examples of individuals who chose either the path of life and truth or the way of deception and death. God, in His infinite wisdom, has laid before us the principles that guide us to live righteously. However, many have stumbled due to deception, rebellion, and self-will. This teaching aims to expound on the necessity of choosing truth over deception and embracing the life that God has intended for His people.
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GOD’S INTENTION IS GOODNESS, NOT EVIL
Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
God does not desire that we live in sorrow or confusion. He has planned goodness for us and has given us the ability to choose the right path. Even in the midst of trials, we must remain steadfast, knowing that He is with us. When people fall along the way, it is because of their own choices, not because God willed it. He remains faithful and desires that we walk in truth.
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SEEKING GOD ABOVE ALL ELSE
Psalm 42:1
As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.
Just as a deer thirsts for water, our souls must yearn for the presence of God. He is the living water, the only source of true satisfaction. Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman, revealing that those who drink from Him will never thirst again. Many people seek fulfillment in the world, but true life is only found in Christ. Our hunger and thirst should be directed toward Him, for He alone can quench the longing of our souls.
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THE DANGER OF CHOOSING DECEPTION OVER TRUTH
Genesis 3:6
And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.
From the beginning, deception has been the enemy’s greatest weapon. Eve was deceived by the serpent and led Adam into sin. Their decision to disobey God brought death and destruction upon humanity. Today, many people continue to make similar choices—choosing worldly pleasures over divine truth. However, those who seek after truth will find life and blessings in God’s presence.
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FAITHFULNESS LEADS TO BLESSINGS
Revelation 2:10
Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.
Remaining faithful to God brings great rewards. In a world filled with temptations and distractions, it is easy to be drawn away from the truth. However, God calls His people to stay steadfast in holiness and righteousness. Those who endure will experience His abundant blessings and eternal life. Faithfulness requires resisting the ways of the world and standing firm in the principles of God’s kingdom.
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CHOOSING LIFE OVER DEATH
Deuteronomy 30:19
I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live.
Every day, we are faced with choices that determine our spiritual direction. Just as Adam and Eve had a choice, so do we. Cain’s jealousy led him to murder his brother, Abel, resulting in a curse upon his life. Sin always leads to destruction, but those who choose life in Christ will experience His grace and mercy. We must put away all evil desires and embrace the path of righteousness.
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SUMMARY
The choices we make determine our destiny. God has called us to walk in truth, seek Him with all our hearts, and remain faithful in our journey. The enemy will always try to deceive us, but through God’s Word, we can discern right from wrong. When we choose truth, we choose life and blessings.
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CONCLUSION
God has given us a clear path to follow, but it is up to us to walk in it. By seeking Him daily, rejecting deception, and remaining faithful, we secure our place in His kingdom. Those who choose sin and rebellion will face destruction, but those who choose righteousness will inherit eternal life.
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CALL TO ACTION
Examine your heart today. Are you walking in truth, or have you been deceived by the world? Make the decision to follow God wholeheartedly. Choose life over death, truth over lies, and righteousness over sin. Surrender to God and allow Him to lead you into His perfect will.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
God loves you and desires the best for your life. No matter where you have been or what you have done, His grace is sufficient. Turn to Him today, and He will lead you on the path of truth and righteousness. Stand firm in your faith, knowing that He is with you always.
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SALVATION PRAYER
Lord Jesus, I come before You today, acknowledging that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I believe that You died on the cross for my sins and rose again on the third day. I confess You as my Lord and Savior, and I surrender my life to You. Wash me with Your precious blood and fill me with Your Holy Spirit. Help me to walk in truth and righteousness all the days of my life. Thank You for Your love and salvation. In Jesus' name, Amen.
