THE CONSEQUENCES OF CHOOSING DARKNESS OVER LIGHT By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Romans 1:28-32
"Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done. They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; they have no understanding, no fidelity, no love, no mercy. Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them."
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INTRODUCTION
Throughout history, God has given humanity the opportunity to choose between righteousness and iniquity. Unfortunately, many have chosen the latter, embracing sin and rebellion against their Creator. This study explores the tragic consequences of rejecting God's light, the dangers of being ruled by demonic forces, and the inevitable judgment that follows those who refuse to repent. As we examine the scriptural warnings and divine admonitions, let us open our hearts to understanding the urgency of living in obedience to God.
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THE DANGER OF LOVING DARKNESS
John 3:19-20
"This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed."
Many people knowingly reject the truth of God, preferring instead to dwell in sin. This preference for darkness over light is not accidental but intentional. When individuals embrace iniquity, they invite the rulership of demonic forces over their lives, making themselves strongholds of filthiness. The spiritual blindness that results leads to a life of destruction, as sin gradually consumes every aspect of one's existence.
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THE CONSEQUENCES OF REJECTING GOD'S WARNINGS
Proverbs 1:24-26
"But since you refuse to listen when I call and no one pays attention when I stretch out my hand, since you disregard all my advice and do not accept my rebuke, I in turn will laugh when disaster strikes you; I will mock when calamity overtakes you."
God repeatedly sends His messengers to warn people of their wickedness, yet many reject His call to repentance. This continued defiance results in severe consequences, including divine wrath, deprivation, and destruction. When individuals and nations refuse to heed God's voice, they position themselves for ruin, losing the very blessings they once took for granted.
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THE ENSNARING POWER OF IDOLATRY AND WICKEDNESS
Exodus 20:3-5
"You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me."
Idolatry is not merely the worship of physical images but also the elevation of anything above God. When people prioritize sin, wealth, pleasure, or power over their Creator, they become slaves to demonic forces. The repercussions of such choices are devastating, not only affecting the individuals involved but also leading entire generations into spiritual bondage.
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GOD'S IMPENDING JUDGMENT ON THE WICKED
Isaiah 13:11
"I will punish the world for its evil, the wicked for their sins. I will put an end to the arrogance of the haughty and will humble the pride of the ruthless."
There comes a time when God executes judgment on those who persist in their rebellion. His justice demands that the wicked reap the consequences of their actions. Cities, nations, and individuals that continue in sin will ultimately face divine punishment, suffering the full weight of God's righteous anger.
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SUMMARY
God has always provided a path of redemption for those willing to turn from their wicked ways. However, those who stubbornly reject His truth will face dire consequences. The Word of God warns that persistent sin invites divine judgment, bringing suffering, destruction, and eternal separation from His presence.
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CONCLUSION
As we reflect on these sobering truths, we must examine our own hearts. Are we walking in the light of God's truth, or are we clinging to the darkness of sin? The choice before us is clear: to serve God and live or to embrace sin and perish. God’s mercy is available, but it requires true repentance and a commitment to righteousness.
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CALL TO ACTION
If you have been living in sin, now is the time to repent. Do not wait until it is too late. Seek God, turn from iniquity, and surrender your life to Him. The time of judgment is near, but His grace is still available to those who humble themselves and seek His face.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Isaiah 55:6-7
"Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. Let them turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will freely pardon."
God is merciful and willing to forgive those who genuinely seek Him. No matter how far you have strayed, His arms are open to receive you. Choose life, choose righteousness, and walk in His light.
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SALVATION PRAYER
Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of Your mercy. I confess my sins before You and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. Today, I surrender my life to You and ask You to be my Lord and Savior. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and guide me in Your ways. Thank You for Your grace and for making me a new creation in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
