GOD IS JEALOUS OVER HIS PEOPLE By Major Frank Materu
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Key Scripture: Exodus 34:14 “For thou shalt worship no other god: for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.”
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Introduction
In every generation, God’s love and faithfulness have stood unmatched. Yet, humanity often forgets the sanctity of the covenant we have with Him. The jealousy of God is not a petty emotion but a profound expression of His holiness, love, and justice. It is a burning zeal for His people to remain true to Him and to Him alone. This lesson, inspired by divine revelation, explores the depths of God’s jealousy, His righteous wrath against idolatry, and the call for His people to return to Him in purity and truth.
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The Nature of God’s Jealousy
Exodus 20:5 reminds us, “For I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me.” The jealousy of God is deeply tied to His covenant relationship with His people. He desires undivided worship, untainted devotion, and total submission to His will. God’s jealousy is not selfish but protective. It ensures that His people remain within the bounds of His love and righteousness, shielded from the destruction of sin.
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The Idolatry of the Present Generation
Jeremiah 2:13 declares, “For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.” This generation has turned to false gods, idols of wealth, power, and convenience. The works of human hands and the systems of the world have taken the place of God in the hearts of many. Even those who profess to belong to Him have mingled their devotion with idolatry. They have sought comfort and security in worldly systems, forsaking the sovereignty of God.
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The Wrath of God’s Jealousy
Deuteronomy 32:21 reveals, “They have moved me to jealousy with that which is not God; they have provoked me to anger with their vanities: and I will move them to jealousy with those which are not a people.” God’s jealousy manifests as a purifying fire, exposing hypocrisy, punishing rebellion, and calling His people to repentance. His wrath is not without purpose; it is a divine response to unfaithfulness, designed to awaken hearts to the gravity of their sin and their desperate need for Him.
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The Call to Repentance
2 Chronicles 7:14 offers hope: “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” The time has come for a remnant to rise—those who will reject the gods of this age, renounce their worldly allegiances, and stand boldly for the Lord. God is seeking true worshippers, those who will walk in obedience, holiness, and love.
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The Test of Allegiance
Matthew 6:24 warns, “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” God is using the pressures of life, even the systems of the world, to reveal the true allegiance of His people. This is a season of purification where each individual must choose: will they bow to the state and the systems of man, or will they stand for the sovereignty of God?
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The Remnant Will Arise
Romans 11:5 encourages us, “Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Though many have strayed, God has preserved a faithful remnant. This remnant will reject compromise, cling to His truth, and walk the narrow path. They will bear witness to His glory, even in the midst of persecution and trial.
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Summary
God’s jealousy is a call to return to Him with undivided hearts. He desires a pure and holy people, free from the entanglements of idolatry and worldly compromise. His wrath against sin is a righteous expression of His love, designed to draw us back to Him.
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Conclusion
As God’s people, we must heed the warnings of His jealousy and choose Him above all else. The time for half-hearted devotion is over. We are called to stand in truth, holiness, and unwavering faithfulness to the Lord.
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Call to Action
Examine your heart and identify any idols or allegiances that compete with your devotion to God. Repent, renounce all forms of idolatry, and renew your commitment to Him. Let your life be a testimony of His glory and a beacon of hope to others.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Isaiah 41:10 assures us, “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” Be encouraged to stand firm in the Lord. His jealousy is proof of His deep love for you. Return to Him with all your heart, and you will find grace, mercy, and restoration in His presence.
