Re:Verse reading–1 Samuel 15 (day four)
V. 26 –“you have rejected the word of the Lord.”
This was the reason for Saul’s rejection…the reason his kingdom was taken away…he had rejected God’s Word. It wasn’t just this one instance with the Amalekites, it was a pattern of rebellion against God. Saul had sought to rule his kingdom according to his own desires in his own time.
Saul’s failure should serve as a warning to us. Does God really mean what He says in Scripture? Do we really expect to avoid judgment and punishment when we justify our disobedience? As individuals or as a nation, can we allow abortion? Can we pervert God’s plan for marriage and the family? Can we refuse to forgive and reconcile? Can we pick and choose which command or how much of a command we will obey? Forgiveness is available in response to true repentance. True repentance will be followed by change of heart and action. Obedience is better than sacrifice!
God rejected Saul because he rejected God first. Disobedience carries undesirable consequences. Rejection of God’s authority is a sin. Violation of God’s law is a sin. Rejection of authority will lead to darkness, not light.
Rejection of God leads to God’s redirection of His prior agreement and may lead to God’s punishment. God blesses those who obey, curses and punishes those who disobey. Leaders reward those who follow organizational rules and punish those who break them.
Joy and peace will come to those who obey God’s law (spiritual/eternal) and societal law (society/earthy). As humans and as long as we exist on this earth, we are required to follow both laws to maintain peaceful, happy and joyful living. Obedience of authority and laws helps us live a life without fears. I am convinced.