GOD’S PEOPLE HAVE WALKED OFF THE JOB! By Major Frank Materu
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Scripture Reference: "For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance." (Romans 11:29, KJV)
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Introduction
In the vast tapestry of history, God has continuously assigned His people tasks of eternal significance. These tasks, laden with divine purpose, call for steadfastness, obedience, and an unwavering commitment to His will. However, as observed in many eras, including our own, there exists a tragic pattern: God’s people abandon their posts. This message explores the grave consequences of "walking off the job" and exhorts believers to remain steadfast in their divine assignments.
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The Job Assigned by God
God’s calling upon His people is not random; it is deliberate and purposeful. Each believer is tasked with declaring His Kingdom, proclaiming His truth, and being a beacon of light in a dark world. The job entails:
• Living out His commandments daily.
• Standing firm in faith amidst trials.
• Calling others to repentance and salvation.
The Bible reminds us in Ephesians 4:1: "Walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called." Walking in obedience to His calling ensures we fulfill His purposes.
Walking Off the Job: The Act of Rebellion
To "walk off the job" is to abandon the mission God has entrusted. This act stems from discontentment, rebellion, or a desire to follow personal ambitions instead of God's will. As seen in Jonah 1:3, "But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord, and went down to Joppa." Jonah’s initial rebellion demonstrates the natural inclination to evade responsibility, yet God’s mercy corrected his course. Walking off the job manifests in various forms, including:
• Pursuing worldly pleasures over spiritual growth.
• Ignoring God’s voice and embracing distractions.
• Complaining about the challenges of service.
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Consequences of Abandoning the Post
Turning away from God’s calling has dire consequences. It not only affects the individual but also impacts others who depend on their ministry. As James 4:17 states, "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin." Consequences include:
• Loss of God’s favor and blessings.
• Spiritual drift, leading to despair and darkness.
• Accountability before God for unfulfilled duties.
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This departure invites God’s judgment, as highlighted in Hebrews 10:26-27: "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful looking for of judgment."
Remaining Steadfast in the Calling
Faithfulness is paramount in fulfilling God’s assignments. Believers must cultivate unwavering commitment, drawing strength from God’s promises. In Galatians 6:9, we are exhorted: "And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." Staying the course requires:
• Continual prayer and reliance on God’s strength (Philippians 4:13).
• Trusting in God’s provision and timing.
• Being rooted in His Word for guidance and correction (Psalm 119:105).
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Summary
The divine assignments given to God’s people are opportunities to glorify Him and bring hope to a broken world. However, when His people abandon their posts, they not only dishonor Him but also hinder His work. Remaining steadfast in the face of challenges brings eternal rewards and demonstrates trust in His sovereign plan.
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Conclusion
God’s calling on our lives is irrevocable. While the journey may be fraught with difficulties, the eternal rewards far outweigh the trials. Let us choose faithfulness over fleeting comfort, obedience over rebellion, and service over self.
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Call to Action
If you’ve walked off the job that God entrusted to you, now is the time to return. Repent, realign with His purposes, and renew your commitment to serve Him wholeheartedly. As 2 Chronicles 7:14 declares: "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."
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Final Word of Encouragement
Stay steadfast in your divine assignment, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. As you persevere, may you find strength, joy, and fulfillment in His service, glorifying Him in all that you do. "Be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord" (1 Corinthians 15:58).
