SUMMARY: No excuses
OVERVIEW: Saul disobeyed Samuel’s instruction and was not qualified to make the offering. Instead of confessing, he offered an excuse.
BIG IDEA: Own your mistakes and confess them to God and others.
KEY VERSE: 1 Samuel 13:14 (Samuel to Saul)
But now your kingdom must end, for the Lord has sought out a man after his own heart. The Lord has already appointed him to be the leader of his people, because you have not kept the Lord’s command.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
I always want you to tell me the truth. It proves we have a healthy relationship, and it shows me you want to do the right thing. Plus—don’t forget—I know all things, so it’s foolish to try to hide anything from me. The only thing worse than disobeying is lying about your disobedience. Own your wrong choices and ask for forgiveness. Covering them up or hoping no one will find out builds a wall between us and adds a burden to your heart and mind that you have to carry. Let it go.
You will fail from time to time. And when you do, confess it to me and anyone you may have hurt, and move on. The Holy Spirit will be with you and help at that moment and beyond. Don’t let it hang over your head. I’m not putting it there, so ignore any feelings of regret or shame. Once you’ve confessed your sin, it is gone. I forgive your sin and embrace you as my child. Walk with the confidence that your heavenly father loves you and is with you.
NEXT STEP
Be quick to confess your sin. Avoid the temptation to sweep sin or errors under the rug, hoping no one finds out. Instead, lead by example by being honest with God and others.
VIDEO CLIP
BONUS Lyric Video