God Is Grieved That Men Have Chosen Death Instead of His Life By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: “I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live…” Deuteronomy 30:19 (ESV)
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Introduction
The message of God’s grief over humanity’s choices resonates deeply in our current generation. Despite God’s offer of abundant life, many have turned away, embracing paths that lead to destruction. This teaching aims to illuminate the gravity of rejecting God’s ways, the consequences of self-centeredness, and the power of repentance as a means to restore broken fellowship with God. It challenges believers to rise as intercessors and to embrace the divine call to repentance and self-denial.
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God’s Offer of Life vs. Humanity’s Choice of Death
Key Scripture: “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23 (ESV)
God has lovingly extended the gift of life through Christ, yet many have spurned His invitation. By choosing self-love, pride, and false gods, humanity has opted for spiritual death over divine life. This grievous choice reflects a heart that is far from God and rooted in rebellion.
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The Consequences of Serving the God of Self
Key Scripture: “But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant… rather than lovers of God.” 2 Timothy 3:1-2, 4 (ESV)
The idolization of self has devastating spiritual consequences. It blinds individuals to their need for God, leading them into sin, bondage, and eternal separation from Him. The god of self enslaves its worshippers, robbing them of true joy and peace. God calls believers to intercede against this pervasive idol, praying for hearts to be turned back to Him.
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The Call to Repentance Revolution
Key Scripture: “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
God’s heart yearns for a generation that will repent on behalf of others, standing in the gap as intercessors. This Repentance Revolution is a movement of crying out for the lost and seeking God’s mercy for nations steeped in sin. It is a call to pray fervently, recognizing repentance as a divine privilege.
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The Power of Intercession
Key Scripture: “And I sought for a man among them who should build up the wall and stand in the breach before me for the land, that I should not destroy it, but I found none.” Ezekiel 22:30 (ESV)
Intercession bridges the gap between God and those ensnared by sin. Through prayer, intercessors can invoke God’s mercy, enabling the spiritually blind to see their need for repentance. Intercessory prayer dismantles strongholds, frees captives, and creates pathways for divine intervention.
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The Privilege of Repentance
Key Scripture: “…not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9 (ESV)
Repentance is not a burden but a privilege granted by God. It is a means of restoration, cleansing, and renewed fellowship with Him. As believers, we are called to repent not only for our sins but also on behalf of others and for the sins of our nation.
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Summary
God’s grief is evident when men choose death over the life He offers. The god of self has ensnared many, leading them to destruction. However, through intercession and repentance, there is hope for restoration. God’s mercy is abundant for those who turn to Him with contrite hearts.
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Conclusion
The choice between life and death lies before every individual. God desires that all would choose life, but this requires repentance, humility, and a turning away from self-worship. As believers, we are called to lead by example, embracing repentance as a lifestyle and interceding for the lost.
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Call to Action
Rise as an intercessor in the Repentance Revolution. Dedicate time to pray for those who are bound by sin and self-centeredness. Ask God to reveal the ugliness of sin to them and to draw them into His light. Share the message of repentance and salvation with boldness and love.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Do not grow weary in standing for righteousness. Your prayers and intercessions are powerful weapons against the darkness of this age. Trust that God hears you and will honor your obedience. Remember, you are partnering with the Creator to bring forth life, freedom, and redemption to a dying world. Choose life, and encourage others to do the same!
