Remaining Steadfast in a World Gone Astray By Major. Frank Materu
Main Verse:
"Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." 1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV)
1. Rejecting the World’s Imitations for God’s True Light
In today’s world, where falsehood is celebrated and truth is often dismissed, many have rejected the call of God, despising His truth and ignoring His prophets.
Instead of humbly turning to Him, they create their own versions of truth, leading only to their own downfall.
"They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator." Romans 1:25 (NIV)
God promises to give His truth and guidance to those who stay faithful, who do not allow circumstances to dictate their beliefs but instead trust in His ultimate wisdom and mercy.
2. Holding Faith in a Time of Displeasure
This is an era in which God is deeply displeased with the rebellion of mankind.
Yet, we can find solace in knowing that we have the opportunity to be pleasing to Him, remaining uplifted, corrected, and guided by His truth.
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil." 1 Peter 3:12 (NIV)
Our faith becomes a shield, protecting us against the arrows of doubt and adversity, empowering us to live righteously in the midst of darkness.
3. Standing Strong Amidst Deception and Rejection
Many have chosen the path of deception, delighting in lies and charm.
But God calls His faithful to stand strong, to hold to His teachings, and to reject the voices that oppose His truth.
Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them." Ephesians 5:11 (NIV)
Our role is to persist in the truth, knowing that God’s message of repentance and righteousness will continue through those who stay true to His Word.
4. Resisting the Intoxication of Pride
As pride has swept across nations and even infiltrated the church, humility has become a rare virtue.
The world, and often the church as well, has embraced worldly ways, straying far from God’s call.
Pride blinds people to correction and guidance, leading them astray as they prioritize their opinions over God’s truth.
"Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." - Proverbs 16:18 (NIV)
God’s message is clear: only through humility and submission can we hope to walk in His ways and receive His guidance.
5. Continuing in Faith Despite Scoffers
Those who remain faithful must stand strong, even when mocked or ridiculed. Throughout history, God’s people have faced rejection, but God has always been their strength.
"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me." Matthew 5:11 (NIV)
Let us remain steadfast, knowing that God honors the faithful and strengthens those who persevere in the face of opposition.
Conclusion: Embracing God’s Truth and Rejecting Deception
In a world filled with deception, pride, and rebellion, our calling is to cling to God’s truth.
By humbly submitting to His guidance, rejecting the ways of the world, and standing firm in the face of opposition, we honor Him and live as His faithful servants.
"Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful." 1 Corinthians 4:2 (NIV)
