The Blessing of Obedience
Monday, March 11
The Blessing of Obedience
But Samuel replied: ‘Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. 1 Samuel 15:22
In 1 Samuel 15, we see a powerful lesson about the importance of obedience to God. Saul had been given a clear command from the Lord through the prophet Samuel to completely destroy the Amalekites and all their possessions. However, instead of obeying God’s command fully, Saul chose to spare the best of the livestock and the king of the Amalekites, rationalizing his actions by planning to offer them as sacrifices to God.
When Samuel confronted Saul about his disobedience, Saul defended his actions, insisting that he had obeyed the Lord’s command by keeping the best animals to offer as sacrifices. But Samuel’s response reveals a profound truth about God’s priorities: obedience is far more valuable to God than religious rituals. God desires obedience from His children above all else.
When we choose to obey God’s commands, even when it’s difficult or inconvenient, we open ourselves up to receive His blessings and favor. Obedience leads to intimacy with God, protection from harm, and fulfillment of His promises in our lives. As we walk in obedience to God, we experience the joy of knowing that we are living in alignment with His perfect will and bringing glory to His name.
Prayer for today: Father, thank You for Your word which guides and directs us in the path of obedience. Help us to understand that obedience is better than sacrifice, and to heed Your voice above all else. Give us hearts that are fully surrendered to Your will and obedient to Your commands. May we walk in obedience each day, trusting in Your faithfulness and experiencing the blessings that come from following You. Amen.