The Consequences of Rejecting God’s Call By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Proverbs 14:12 - "There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death."
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Introduction:
The Word of God consistently calls us to live according to His truth, yet many, both in leadership and among the people, continue to refuse His guidance. The result of such refusal is devastating. For generations, the Lord has sent His prophets to warn of the consequences of disobedience, yet people continue to choose their own paths over the path of righteousness. Those who have rejected God’s messengers have opened the door for destruction and judgment to come upon them and their nations. This message serves as a reminder that those who refuse to heed God's call will inevitably face the consequences of their choices, and that only by turning to Him in repentance can we avoid the coming wrath.
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The Danger of Refusing God’s Warnings
God has consistently warned His people through the prophets, calling them to repentance and a return to righteousness. Yet, there are those who reject these warnings, choosing instead to live according to their own desires. Jeremiah 7:13 warns, "While you were doing all these things, declares the Lord, I spoke to you again and again, but you did not listen; I called you, but you did not answer." The refusal to listen to God’s messengers and to turn from wickedness leads to disaster. The blood of those who ignore God’s call will be on their own hands.
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Choosing Evil Over Good
The Lord has provided His people with clear instructions on how to live, but many continue to choose evil over good. Those who pursue evil are not only rejecting God’s goodness but are also allowing demonic forces to rule over them. Galatians 6:7 states, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." The Lord has not called His people to a life of misery but to one of mercy and grace. When people persist in choosing evil, they bring upon themselves the consequences of their actions.
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The Broad Way and the Deception of the World
Many people are deceived into thinking that the broad way—what the world offers—is the right path. The world is filled with lies, and those who choose to follow these lies are heading toward destruction. Matthew 7:13 teaches, "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it." This path seems appealing but ultimately leads to devastation. God’s call is to walk the narrow path of righteousness, where truth and life are found.
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The Corruption of Leadership and Its Impact
Throughout history, leaders who refuse to listen to godly counsel have led their nations into ruin. Instead of leading their people toward peace and righteousness, they surround themselves with those who perpetuate lies and deceit. Isaiah 9:16 says, "For those who guide this people mislead them, and those who are guided are led astray." The choices made by those in power affect not only their own lives but the lives of the people they lead. When leaders refuse to heed God’s wisdom, they bring about destruction not only for themselves but for the entire nation.
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The Ugliness of Sin and the Need for Repentance
Sin, in all its forms, brings about ugliness and destruction. God’s people are called to live lives of righteousness, but many have allowed their hearts to be hardened and their minds to be clouded by sin. Isaiah 1:18 invites us, "Come now, let us settle the matter," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool." Repentance is the key to escaping the judgment that sin brings. God desires to restore His people to Himself, but this requires genuine repentance and a turning away from the ways of the world.
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God’s Power to Judge and Redeem
Though the nations may seem to be in turmoil, and the leaders may appear to be in control, God is sovereign over all. He is capable of bringing judgment upon the wicked and redemption to those who turn to Him. Psalm 2:9 declares, "You will break them with a rod of iron; you will dash them to pieces like pottery." While those who persist in their rebellion will face the consequences of their actions, God offers redemption to those who humble themselves and seek His forgiveness.
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Summary:
The message is clear: those who reject God’s prophets and choose evil over good will face the consequences of their actions. The broad way may seem easy, but it leads to destruction. It is only through repentance and obedience to God’s Word that we can avoid judgment. God’s people are called to walk in righteousness, rejecting the lies of the world and listening to the truth of His Word.
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Conclusion:
The time has come for us to choose which path we will follow. Will we walk the narrow way of righteousness, or will we be deceived by the broad way that leads to destruction? The consequences of our choices are severe, but God, in His mercy, offers a way out through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. Let us choose wisely and turn from our sinful ways.
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Call to Action:
I urge you today to examine your life. Are you following the path of righteousness, or are you following the broad way of destruction? If you have strayed from God’s ways, now is the time to return to Him. Repent and turn to God, for He is merciful and just. The time for complacency is over; now is the time to act.
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Final Word of Encouragement:
God is able to restore and redeem. No matter how far you have fallen, He is ready to forgive and transform your life. Turn to Him today, and allow Him to lead you into the life He has prepared for you. He desires to save you from destruction and to guide you into His righteousness.
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Salvation Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
I come before You in repentance, acknowledging my sins and my need for Your forgiveness. I believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, and I ask You to cleanse me from all unrighteousness. I surrender my life to You and commit to following Your ways. Please fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to live a life that pleases You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
