SUMMARY: Fear God
OVERVIEW: Saul disobeys God’s instructions when he battles the Amalekites. He chooses to act in a way that seems wise to him. Samuel tells Saul his actions will result in being replaced as king.
BIG IDEA: “To obey is better than sacrifice” (verse 22).
KEY VERSE: 1 Samuel 15:24 (Saul to Samuel)
Then Saul admitted to Samuel, “Yes, I have sinned. I have disobeyed your instructions and the Lord’s command, for I was afraid of the people and did what they demanded.”
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Live for an audience of one. Seek me throughout your day. Stop and listen to my instructions. Read my words. And pursue the wise counsel of others who know me and love me. When you focus on pleasing and honoring me, everything else gets taken care of. You cannot please everyone. Some will offer opportunities to get ahead that are not consistent with my way. Learn to say “no” without regret, and be confident that a “yes” to me is sometimes scary, but is always the right way to live.
Follow me, and you will gain respect from others that you desire. And if they don’t respect you, it will quickly be evident that you made the wise decision to walk with me. I know there will be times you feel pressured to do the wrong thing, and sometimes others will be frustrated with you. You may lose a job or a friendship. But I want you to have a long view of life. Invest in the things that last for eternity, not those that quickly disappear.
NEXT STEP
Is there someone in your life whose opinion matters more than God’s? Discipline yourself to start and end your day, talking with God. Set aside times to “pause” and acknowledge God during your day, as well. Seek God and put his ways first.
LYRIC VIDEO