THE RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENTS OF GOD AND THE WAY OF LIFE By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Proverbs 14:12 - "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death."
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INTRODUCTION
God is a just and righteous Judge who does not tolerate wickedness. Throughout history, He has demonstrated His justice by rewarding the righteous and punishing the wicked. Many people who mock God and reject His reproof meet an untimely end, not because of chance, but as a result of their own stubborn rebellion. The scriptures confirm that those who persist in wickedness, refusing to heed divine correction, will perish without remedy.
At the same time, God has provided a path of redemption through Jesus Christ. Those who truly repent and turn away from sin are restored to God’s family. However, superficial repentance, where individuals continue to serve their own interests, is not acceptable to Him. Every person is personally accountable to God and must establish their own relationship with Him through faith and obedience.
This teaching will explore God's righteous judgments, the danger of self-exaltation, and the assurance that He makes a way for His true followers. We will also see the importance of true repentance and how a life surrendered to God brings His miraculous intervention.
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GOD IS NOT MOCKED: THE FATE OF THE WICKED
Proverbs 29:1 - "He who is often rebuked, and hardens his neck, will suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy."
The Bible warns that God is not mocked, and those who reject His correction will face destruction. Many people live in open rebellion against God, refusing to humble themselves and obey His word. They continue in their sins despite multiple warnings, and as a result, they face sudden destruction.
When we see the downfall of the wicked, we must recognize that it is a direct consequence of their actions. God is neither deceived nor unjust in His judgments. Those who reject His truth and walk in rebellion bring judgment upon themselves. Their premature deaths and eternal condemnation are the result of their persistent rejection of God's righteousness.
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TRUE REPENTANCE: THE PATH TO RESTORATION
Acts 3:19 - "Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord."
God, in His great mercy, has provided a way of escape from judgment through repentance. True repentance is more than just words; it is a heartfelt turning away from sin and a complete surrender to God. Those who genuinely repent seek transformation and a life of righteousness.
However, many people pretend to repent while continuing to serve themselves. Their hearts remain far from God because they are motivated by self-interest rather than a sincere desire to please Him. God sees through false repentance and rejects those whose primary allegiance is to themselves rather than to Him.
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GOD MAKES A WAY WHERE THERE IS NO WAY
Isaiah 43:19 - "Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."
No situation is impossible for God. He is the miracle-working God who creates a way when there seems to be none. Many times in our lives, we face challenges that appear insurmountable. However, God has already gone ahead of us, preparing doors of opportunity and favor in ways beyond human understanding.
Even when our enemies try to destroy us, they cannot succeed because God is with us. His divine protection preserves those who trust in Him. Rather than worrying about the future, we must place our confidence in God's provision and guidance.
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GRATITUDE: THE ATTITUDE THAT PLEASES GOD
1 Thessalonians 5:18 - "In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
A grateful heart is essential in our walk with God. We must recognize His goodness, faithfulness, and miracles in our lives. He has preserved us from destruction, provided for our needs, and guided us in His ways. Those who cultivate a heart of gratitude will experience the fullness of God's blessings.
Even when we face trials and opposition, we should not be discouraged. Persecution for the sake of Christ is a sign that we belong to Him. Those who remain steadfast in their faith, despite trials, will reign with Him in eternity.
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SELF-EXALTATION: THE DANGER OF A WORKS-BASED RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD
Matthew 7:22-23 - "Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’"
Many people base their relationship with God on their works rather than on intimacy with Him. They believe that their good deeds alone will earn them a place in His kingdom. However, true faith is not about what we do, but about who we are in Christ.
God desires truth in the inward parts. Those who focus on their works rather than on knowing Him will be rejected. The standard of His Kingdom is not outward performance, but an inward transformation that leads to obedience and humility before Him.
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SUMMARY
God is just and will not be mocked. The wicked who refuse His correction face destruction, while those who truly repent find restoration. He is the miracle-working God who makes a way for His people. Gratitude should define our relationship with Him, and we must be careful not to fall into the trap of self-exaltation. True faith is about knowing Him intimately and walking in obedience.
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CONCLUSION
Every individual must choose whether to serve God or to live in rebellion. Those who persist in sin will face judgment, while those who humble themselves and truly repent will experience His mercy and blessings. God’s ways are higher than ours, and those who trust Him will never be put to shame.
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CALL TO ACTION
Examine your heart today. Are you truly surrendered to God, or are you merely performing religious works? Seek an intimate relationship with Him and walk in true repentance. Trust in His provision, and live with an attitude of gratitude. He is faithful to guide and sustain all who put their trust in Him.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
God is for you, not against you. His plans for you are good, and He will never leave you nor forsake you. Continue walking in His righteousness, and He will be your strength and defender.
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SALVATION PRAYER
If you have not yet surrendered your life to Jesus, now is the time. Pray this prayer sincerely:
"Lord Jesus, I come before You today acknowledging that I am a sinner. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that You died for me and rose again. I surrender my life to You and accept You as my Lord and Savior. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to walk in Your ways. In Jesus’ Name, Amen."
