Born to Be Bad or Called to Righteousness? By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land." - 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
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Introduction
The question of human nature has long been debated: Are people inherently good or evil? The Bible provides a clear answer—while we were created in God's image, sin entered the world through disobedience, and every human being is born with a sinful nature. From the time of Adam and Eve, humanity has struggled with obedience to God, often choosing rebellion instead.
However, the good news of the Gospel is that we are not doomed to remain in sin. Through Jesus Christ, we are given a choice—to live in righteousness or continue in wickedness. The decisions we make daily determine our spiritual destiny and the legacy we leave for future generations. In this article, we explore the consequences of disobedience, the power of righteous living, and the call to join the Warriors for Righteousness in these perilous times.
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The Origin of Sin and the Curse of Disobedience
"For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive." - 1 Corinthians 15:22 (NIV)
The story of humanity's downfall begins in the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve were created to live in perfect communion with God, yet they chose to disobey His direct command. Their decision to eat from the forbidden tree led to spiritual and physical death, separating them—and all of humanity—from God.
This act of defiance set a pattern of rebellion that has continued throughout history. When people choose their own way over God's way, they invite destruction upon themselves. The curse of sin is evident in the struggles of nations, families, and individuals who reject God's authority. Yet, despite this, God has always provided a way of redemption for those who seek Him.
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The Power of Choice: Good or Evil
"See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction. For I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, and to keep his commands, decrees, and laws; then you will live and increase, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess." - Deuteronomy 30:15-16 (NIV)
Although we are born into a sinful world, God has given us the ability to choose between good and evil. Abraham, often called the father of faith, demonstrated this when he obeyed God's call. Yet, even he and his wife Sarah faltered when they attempted to fulfill God's promise through human effort, leading to the birth of Ishmael.
Ishmael's descendants became a source of conflict, illustrating the long-term consequences of choices made outside of God's will. This serves as a warning: choosing to follow God leads to blessings, while choosing rebellion leads to generational struggles and hardship.
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The Rise of Wickedness in Leadership
"When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan." - Proverbs 29:2 (NIV)
Today, we witness the consequences of leadership that rejects God's principles. Many world leaders are driven by greed, power, and self-idolatry rather than righteousness. Their actions lead to oppression, war, and destruction. Instead of seeking God’s wisdom, they rely on deception and manipulation, causing suffering for the masses.
God has always opposed such leadership. He sent prophets to warn kings and nations, yet many refused to listen. The result? Judgment, war, and national ruin. The same pattern is evident in our modern world, where moral decay is rampant, and leaders are openly hostile to God's commands.
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God’s Call to the Warriors for Righteousness
"Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes." - Ephesians 6:11 (NIV)
In response to the growing wickedness, God is raising up a new force—the Warriors for Righteousness. These are men and women who are committed to upholding God’s truth in a world of deception. Unlike the world’s armies, which fight with weapons of destruction, these warriors fight with prayer, faith, and the Word of God.
The mission of the Warriors for Righteousness is to counteract the darkness by standing for holiness, truth, and justice. This spiritual battle requires believers to remain steadfast, rejecting compromise and standing firm against the lies of the enemy.
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Summary
From the beginning, humanity has faced a choice: to follow God’s way or to rebel. Those who choose wickedness invite destruction, while those who follow righteousness receive God's blessings. In these end times, the rise of wickedness in leadership and society demands that believers take a stand. The call to righteousness is urgent, and God is equipping His people for the battle ahead.
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Conclusion
We are not born to be bad—we are born with the potential to choose righteousness. Although sin has affected all of humanity, the sacrifice of Jesus Christ offers us redemption. By choosing to obey God, we align ourselves with His purpose and become instruments of His will in the world.
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The Call to Action
If you desire to be part of God’s righteous army, commit yourself to holiness today. Seek God's will, reject the influence of corrupt leaders, and take your stand for truth. The battle is not against flesh and blood but against the spiritual forces of evil. Arm yourself with the Word of God and live in obedience to His commands.
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Final Word of Encouragement
"But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one." - 2 Thessalonians 3:3 (NIV)
No matter how dark the world becomes, God remains faithful to those who trust in Him. Keep your eyes on Jesus, for He is the source of strength, wisdom, and victory. Stand firm, and do not be swayed by the shifting tides of moral compromise. God is calling His people to shine as lights in the darkness.
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Prayer of Salvation
If you have never accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, or if you have strayed from the path of righteousness, now is the time to return to Him. Pray this prayer from your heart:
Heavenly Father, I come before You in humility, acknowledging that I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son, that He died for my sins, and that He rose again on the third day. I confess my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. Come into my life, Lord Jesus, and be my Savior. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, guide me in righteousness, and help me to walk in obedience to Your Word.
Thank You for saving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
If you prayed this prayer, know that you are now a child of God. Grow in faith and remain steadfast in righteousness. God has called you to a higher purpose—walk in His ways, and you will see His blessings upon your life. Amen.
