Trusting in God, Not the World By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Isaiah 31:1 "Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in the multitude of their chariots and in the great strength of their horsemen, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel, or seek help from the Lord."
________________________________________
Introduction
Throughout history, God’s people have faced the temptation to trust in worldly powers rather than relying fully on Him. When they turned to the nations around them for security, they often found themselves ensnared in spiritual and physical bondage. The same danger exists today when believers seek solutions from worldly systems instead of placing their faith in the Lord. This message serves as a divine warning and call to absolute trust in God.
________________________________________
The Folly of Seeking Counsel from the World
Jeremiah 17:5 "This is what the Lord says: Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord."
The world cannot offer true wisdom or security. Those who turn to the world for help rather than to God are acting in rebellion. The history of Israel shows that whenever they relied on foreign nations instead of God, they fell into disaster.
________________________________________
The Consequences of Trusting in Worldly Systems
Hosea 7:11-12 "Ephraim is like a dove, easily deceived and senseless—now calling to Egypt, now turning to Assyria. When they go, I will throw my net over them; I will pull them down like the birds in the sky. When I hear them flocking together, I will catch them."
When God's people choose to depend on secular powers, they become ensnared by the very systems they trust. Instead of receiving freedom and security, they find themselves under oppression.
________________________________________
God’s Judgment on Those Who Forsake Him
Deuteronomy 32:15-18 "Jeshurun grew fat and kicked; filled with food, they became heavy and sleek. They abandoned the God who made them and rejected the Rock their Savior."
God will not be mocked. Those who forsake Him and choose the world will face His wrath. History reveals that nations and individuals who reject God's counsel ultimately face ruin.
________________________________________
A Call to Wholehearted Trust in God
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."
Believers must return to full reliance on God, seeking His wisdom and guidance in all aspects of life. Only in Him can we find true peace and security.
________________________________________
Summary
God’s people must not rely on worldly counsel but should place their trust entirely in Him. History demonstrates the consequences of seeking help from ungodly sources. True safety and success come only through faithfulness to God.
________________________________________
Conclusion
God calls His people to unwavering trust in Him. Relying on worldly powers leads to destruction, while trusting in the Lord brings protection and provision. We must make a decisive choice to put our full faith in Him alone.
________________________________________
Call to Action
Examine your heart. Are you seeking worldly solutions instead of trusting in God? Repent and turn fully to Him. Spend time in prayer and scripture, strengthening your faith and reliance on God’s promises.
________________________________________
Final Word of Encouragement
Psalm 20:7 "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God."
The world offers false hope, but God is our true and eternal refuge. Trust in Him alone, and He will never fail you.
________________________________________
Prayer of Salvation
Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I have sinned and placed my trust in the world instead of You. Today, I repent and turn my heart fully to You. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. I accept You as my Lord and Savior. Lead me in Your ways and help me trust You completely. Amen.
