DO NOT ENVY THE WICKED OR THE RELIGIOUS, FOR THEY ARE DAMNED! By Major Frank Materu
Introduction
In a world consumed by pride, arrogance, and rebellion, the Living God calls His people to rejoice and be thankful for His mercy. While many have turned to the ways of wickedness or the self-righteousness of religion, their paths only lead to destruction. This article draws upon divine truth to remind believers to stay steadfast in God's light and avoid the pitfalls of envy towards those who stray.
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Do Not Envy the Wicked, for They Are Damned
"Do not envy the wicked or desire their company, for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about making trouble." – Proverbs 24:1-2
The wicked may appear to prosper in their arrogance, but their lives are marked for destruction. God's wrath is being revealed in this generation as He punishes their rebellion. They have chosen to walk in darkness, turning away from His truth, and as a result, they face His judgment.
As believers, we must not look at their temporary gains with envy, for their end is misery. Instead, we are called to be grateful for God's mercy and the light that guides us daily.
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The Religious Are No Better
"Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven." – Matthew 7:21
Religion without righteousness is rebellion against God. Many claim to know God but live in self-righteousness, relying on man-made doctrines and traditions instead of obedience to His word. The Living God declares that such people are under His wrath, for they have chosen the path of pride and hypocrisy.
Let us not envy the religious who boast of their piety but lack true submission to God. Instead, we must strive to live humbly, walking in His truth and relying on His mercy.
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The Wrath of God Is Revealed
"The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness." – Romans 1:18
God's wrath is evident in the chaos and destruction surrounding us. This generation, consumed by spiritual harlotry and foolishness, faces the consequences of its rebellion. The proud, the arrogant, and the stubborn will be beaten with many stripes until they are utterly crushed.
Yet, amidst His wrath, God shows mercy to those who remain faithful. It is a privilege to walk under His mercy and guidance, especially in such a time of judgment.
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Rejoice in God’s Mercy
"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever." – Psalm 107:1
Believers are called to rejoice and be thankful daily for God’s mercy. While the wicked and the religious face His wrath, those who humble themselves before Him are uplifted and directed in truth. Gratitude and obedience bring forth the blessings of peace, strength, and hope.
To remain under His mercy, we must avoid pride, take correction, and walk in humility. By doing so, we continue to receive His light and truth, even as His wrath is poured out upon the disobedient.
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Conclusion
In these times of divine wrath and judgment, let us remain steadfast in our faith, rejecting the paths of the wicked and the religious. Their pride and rebellion lead to destruction, but God’s mercy is abundant for those who walk in humility and obedience.
Rejoice in the privilege of serving the Living God. Give thanks for His mercy and the hope He provides, knowing that He is in control and will guide His people through the storm. Indeed, it is a blessed thing to dwell in His light and truth.
"For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives." – Hebrews 12:6
