February 28...

I Samuel 15

Why is obedience important? Today we see the effects of disobedience, and we see how far the consequences can linger. The Israelites had a history with the Amalekites, and God had stated what would happen to them in the future.

The Amalekites were the first to attack the Israelites after they left Egypt, and God told Moses to write the following on a scroll as something to be remembered: “I will completely blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven.” (Exodus 17:8-16)

The Israelites are told to “remember what the Amalekites did to you”. They were told that after they gained possession of the Promised Land they would “blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven. Do not forget!” (Deuteronomy 25:17-19).

And, now, the time has come. Saul is leading the Israelites and the order is delivered through Samuel. Read I Samuel 15:2-3 again. It is very specific – do not spare anyone. Remember, God had said that He would blot them out completely. Did Saul obey? No.

What is worse is that he tried to cover up his disobedience. First, he denied his disobedience and claimed that he obeyed. Then, he justified his disobedience by saying that he was thinking about God and saving the best for Him.

If you want a glimpse into God’s heart, look at verses 22-23 again. “To obey is better than sacrifice.” God wants us to obey. He has a big picture – and things would go much better if His servants would OBEY. Not partially. Not half-way. COMPLETELY OBEY.

So what does it matter that Saul disobeyed this one “minor” detail of God’s directions? Well, for Saul, he was rejected as king. For Israel, they would come in contact with the descendants of Agag, the Amalekite, again later. (Do you remember a guy by the name of Haman in the book of Esther? – He didn’t care too much for the Jewish people.)

Think about it:
Does our disobedience affect God’s big picture? If so, how?
Do you try to cover up your disobedience by denying it?
Do you try to cover up your disobedience by justifying it?

Remember, God is interested in your heart. He is not interested in the social Christianity scene. If you are just going through the motions …. STOP. He is not interested. He is interested in you, your heart, your mind, your soul, your actions … all of you. Give it to Him today.