Obedience (2)

King Saul’s life gives us a critical lesson on what God thinks about obedience. King Saul was given a direct order and an assignment from God. “Thus says the LORD of hosts: ‘I will punish Amalek for what he did to Israel, how he ambushed him on the way when he came up from Egypt. Now go and attack Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and do not spare them. But kill both man and woman, infant and nursing child, ox and sheep, camel and donkey’” (1 Samuel 15:2-3).

God gave Saul the victory in battle. But when it came time for obedience, Saul fell short. Instead of destroying everything as God commanded, Saul saved the king and the best of the livestock for sacrifices.

God’s messenger Samuel told Saul, “Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, And to heed than the fat of rams” (1 Samuel 15:22).

Saul wanted to do something sensational instead of simply obeying God. He wanted to host a big sacrificial ceremony and receive accolades. Saul also caved in to the pressure of the people. Because Saul disobeyed, he paid a high price. God rejected him as king and brought up another – David – to take his place. God is serious about obedience. He will lift up another if you are not willing to obey.

You have to make a decision in your life. Do you want to please people or God? If you want to please God and grow spiritually, you must obey Him. It is as simple as that.

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