THE FEAR OF GOD: A CALL TO RIGHTEOUS LIVING By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." (Proverbs 9:10)
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INTRODUCTION
We live in perilous times, where the fear of God has been forsaken, and humanity has embraced wickedness with open arms. Society has grown wise in its own conceit, rejecting divine authority and choosing to walk in rebellion. This has led to the corruption of morals, the degradation of integrity, and the widespread influence of demonic forces. However, God does not desire for His people to be swept away by the flood of evil. Instead, He calls us to walk in His fear, to obey His commands, and to remain steadfast in righteousness.
In this teaching, we will explore the importance of the fear of God, the consequences of rejecting it, and the blessings that come with living in reverence and obedience to the Almighty.
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THE LACK OF THE FEAR OF GOD LEADS TO DESTRUCTION
"There is no fear of God before their eyes." (Romans 3:18)
One of the greatest tragedies of our time is the absence of the fear of God in people’s hearts. The result is the rampant spread of sin and rebellion. When individuals become proud, haughty, and self-sufficient, they open themselves up to deception and demonic influence. The world glorifies arrogance, immorality, and dishonesty, yet these lead to destruction, death, and damnation.
The Bible warns us that those who reject the fear of God will suffer the consequences of their actions. Without godly reverence, people plunge deeper into wickedness, engaging in behaviors that are abominable before the Lord.
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THE WORLD IS CONTROLLED BY DEMONIC INFLUENCES
"We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one." (1 John 5:19)
The world is a dangerous trap ruled by demonic powers. Many people, blinded by pride and worldly wisdom, fail to see the enemy's deception. They view sin as normal and even desirable, not realizing that they are being manipulated by dark forces.
Satan desires to drag as many souls as possible into destruction. He works through pride, greed, and perversion, convincing people that they are invincible. However, God’s children must not be deceived. We must recognize the schemes of the enemy and resist him through the power of the Holy Spirit.
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THE FEAR OF THE LORD BRINGS WISDOM AND PROTECTION
"The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them." (Psalm 34:7)
Unlike the foolishness of the world, the fear of God brings wisdom and divine protection. When we walk in the fear of the Lord, we receive His guidance, favor, and preservation. We are kept from falling into the traps of the enemy, and our paths are directed towards righteousness.
Those who fear God acknowledge His authority, obey His Word, and reject the ways of the world. They understand that true safety is found in submission to Him, not in the fleeting pleasures of sin.
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PRIDE LEADS TO SPIRITUAL BLINDNESS
"Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." (Proverbs 16:18)
Pride is one of the most dangerous sins because it blinds individuals to the truth. Those who are consumed with pride see themselves as superior in wisdom and intelligence, yet in reality, they are fools before God.
Spiritual blindness leads people to call evil good and good evil. They reject correction and choose to walk in darkness. This is why the Bible constantly warns against the dangers of pride. Humility and the fear of the Lord go hand in hand, and those who humble themselves before God will be exalted.
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OBEYING GOD BRINGS LIFE AND BLESSINGS
"If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land." (Isaiah 1:19)
God desires that His children walk in obedience to His Word. Obedience brings blessings, favor, and eternal rewards. When we choose to live according to His commands, we experience peace, joy, and divine provision.
On the contrary, those who reject His ways face hardship and destruction. The world may offer temporary pleasures, but only God provides lasting fulfillment and eternal life.
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SUMMARY
The fear of the Lord is essential for righteous living. Without it, people become blinded by pride, deceived by demonic influences, and led into destruction. However, those who choose to walk in godly fear receive wisdom, protection, and divine blessings.
As believers, we must reject the ways of the world and remain steadfast in our faith. God is calling His people to holiness, and it is our responsibility to heed His call.
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CONCLUSION
God’s warning is clear: those who live without His fear will face eternal consequences. However, those who honor Him and obey His commands will inherit His promises. The world may entice with its sinful pleasures, but these lead to death. True life is found in Christ alone.
Now is the time to turn away from sin and embrace the fear of the Lord. Let us walk in righteousness, knowing that God is our protector and provider.
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CALL TO ACTION
If you have been living without the fear of God, today is the day to make a change. Examine your life and ask yourself whether you are truly walking in obedience to His Word. Choose to turn away from the ways of the world and commit yourself fully to the Lord.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
"Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandments." (Psalm 112:1)
The fear of the Lord is not a burden but a blessing. It leads to wisdom, protection, and eternal rewards. No matter what the world may offer, nothing compares to the joy of living in God’s presence. Stay faithful, remain obedient, and trust in His promises.
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SALVATION PRAYER
If you desire to give your life to Jesus Christ and walk in the fear of the Lord, pray this prayer sincerely:
Heavenly Father, I come before 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 walk in righteousness and the fear of the Lord. Thank You for saving me and making me Your child. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
