GOD\'S PEOPLE HAVE FAILED AT THE JOB HE HAS GIVEN THEM TO DO! By Major Frank Materu
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Key Scripture: "So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one." (Ezekiel 22:30, NKJV)
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Introduction
God’s expectation for His people is clear: to be steadfast, faithful, and diligent in fulfilling His will. However, history and scripture testify to repeated instances where God's people have failed to rise to the occasion. This failure is not just a historical narrative but an indictment of the present generation that claims to know God yet fails to stand firm in His purpose. This message explores the consequences of failing to fulfill God’s commission, the call to repentance, and the urgency of being steadfast in Him.
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God’s Expectation and the Testimony of Failure
God has always sought individuals who will stand in the gap, interceding for others and proclaiming His truth. The scriptures reveal a sobering reality when He said: "I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one." (Ezekiel 22:30, NIV). This underscores not only the gravity of responsibility but also the failure of God’s people to uphold His standards.
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The Consequences of Neglecting God’s Commission
When God's people neglect their divine duties, it opens the door to widespread destruction and judgment. As seen in Hosea 4:6, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being priest for Me; because you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children." Neglecting God's work is not merely a personal failure; it affects generations and entire communities.
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The Call to Faithfulness Amidst a Wicked Generation
In a time of moral decline and widespread wickedness, the responsibility of God’s people becomes even greater. Paul’s exhortation in 1 Corinthians 15:58 serves as a reminder: "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." God’s people are called to remain steadfast, even when the world appears to be falling apart.
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The Danger of Spiritual Complacency
The failure to remain steadfast often stems from complacency and a desire for worldly pleasures. James 4:4 warns, "Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God." Spiritual complacency leads to compromise, idolatry, and ultimately, God’s wrath.
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Accountability and Responsibility Before God
The people of God are accountable for the condition of their generation. Luke 12:48 states, "For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more." As stewards of God’s word, we must rise to the occasion, fulfilling our responsibilities with diligence and humility.
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Summary
The failure of God’s people to fulfill their commission has grave consequences, both spiritually and physically. We are called to be steadfast, immovable, and faithful in our duties, standing in the gap and proclaiming His truth without compromise. Let us reflect on our lives and recommit to the work of the Lord.
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Conclusion
God’s wrath and judgment are not arbitrary; they are the result of a people who have turned away from Him. As believers, we must recognize the seriousness of our calling and rise to fulfill His purpose. The time for repentance and renewal is now.
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Call to Action
Recommit yourself to God’s work. Examine your heart and ask, "Am I fulfilling the job God has given me?" Stand in the gap for your community through prayer, intercession, and faithful service. Share the gospel with urgency and love.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Be encouraged by the words of Galatians 6:9: "And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart." God rewards faithfulness. Rise up, stand firm, and labor diligently for His glory.
