THE DANGER OF INDEPENDENCE FROM GOD By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
Proverbs 14:12 - "There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death."
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INTRODUCTION
In today’s world, many people take pride in their perceived independence, believing they are free to make their own choices without any accountability to God. They celebrate their self-sufficiency, thinking they have attained freedom, yet in reality, they are bound by sin and demonic influence. This deception leads them further away from God, making them susceptible to destruction. True freedom is not found in independence from God, but in submission to Him. This study will explore the dangers of rejecting God’s authority and the importance of remaining dependent on Him for guidance, righteousness, and eternal life.
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THE FALSE FREEDOM THAT LEADS TO BONDAGE
John 8:34 - "Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin."
Many believe that by rejecting God’s commands, they gain freedom. However, this so-called freedom is an illusion. Sin does not liberate; it enslaves. People who turn away from God’s principles become prisoners of their own sinful desires, controlled by the forces of darkness. They may appear to enjoy their independence, but deep inside, they experience confusion, frustration, and despair.
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THE CONSEQUENCES OF SEPARATION FROM GOD
Romans 1:28-32 - "And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient."
When people continuously reject God’s rule, He allows them to follow their own desires, leading to moral decay and destruction. History has shown that societies that abandon God’s principles collapse into corruption and suffering. The further humanity moves from God, the more depraved and wicked it becomes, indulging in behaviors that are detestable in His sight.
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THE GLORY TRAIN VS. THE TRAIN TO HELL
Matthew 7:13-14 - "Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat."
There are only two paths in life: the narrow way that leads to eternal life and the broad way that leads to destruction. Those who choose independence from God are boarding the train to hell, deceived into thinking they are on the right path. However, those who remain obedient to God and follow His ways are on the glory train, destined for eternal life with Him.
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THE DANGER OF RETURNING TO SIN
2 Peter 2:20-22 - "For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning."
Some believers start their walk with Christ but later turn back to sin. When this happens, their condition becomes worse than before because they are now aware of the truth but have chosen to reject it. This opens the door for more demonic oppression and deeper bondage, making it harder for them to return to God.
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THE BLESSING OF DEPENDENCE ON GOD
Isaiah 26:3 - "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
True freedom comes from trusting in God and depending on Him daily. Those who stay connected to Him experience peace, provision, protection, and joy. God never forsakes those who walk in His ways. Instead, He strengthens them and leads them into a life of righteousness and eternal security.
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SUMMARY
Independence from God is a dangerous deception that leads to bondage, confusion, and destruction. Many people celebrate their self-rule without realizing they are enslaved by sin and demonic forces. True freedom is found in submission to God, following His ways, and relying on His guidance. Those who trust in God are kept safe, while those who reject Him board the train to eternal damnation.
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CONCLUSION
Rejecting God’s authority leads to death, but yielding to Him brings life. In a world where people are striving for independence from their Creator, believers must stand firm in their dependence on God. The only true path to freedom is found in Christ, who delivers us from sin and grants us eternal life.
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CALL TO ACTION
Examine your life and ask yourself: Are you on the glory train or the train to hell? Have you fully surrendered to God, or are you still trying to live independently of Him? Choose today to remain in God’s will, following His commands and seeking His righteousness. Do not be deceived by the illusion of worldly freedom. True liberty is found in Christ alone.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
God’s love and mercy are available to all who turn to Him. No matter how far you have strayed, His arms are open to receive you. Choose to walk in His ways and experience the abundant life He has prepared for those who love Him. Stay faithful, and He will guide you to eternal glory.
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SALVATION PRAYER
If you have not yet given your life to Christ, pray this prayer with sincerity:
Heavenly Father, I come to You today, acknowledging that I am a sinner in need of Your mercy. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son, that He died for my sins, and that He rose again on the third day. I accept Him as my Lord and Savior. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to live according to Your will. Thank You for saving me and giving me eternal life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
