Bishop Keith Butler
Jan 25
And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, he hath also rejected thee from being king. (1 Samuel 15:22-23)
What is real faith? We do not show our faith by our observance of traditions, our clothing, or what days we celebrate. It’s not even in our sacrifices of giving that shows our genuine faith in God. Our faith is shown simply in one word: obedience.
What has God said? Are we following His Word or His leading fully? That is the fullness of a life of faith. Obeying God is better than all the sacrifices you can give.
When we do the contrary and rebel against God’s Word and way, the Bible says that rebellion is just like witchcraft. It is against faith; it is worshipping self over worshipping God. Outward acts of devotion can camouflage a heart that is disconnected from God's will.
In 1 Samuel 15:22-23, God rejected Saul from kingship because, although he gave God sacrifices, his disobedience made every sacrifice pointless. God wants obedience, not just sacrifice. God wants a relationship, not just religious actions.
Are we, like Saul, living in a cycle of ritualistic faith without obeying God’s leading? Or are our lives characterized by a deep-seated commitment to hearken unto God's voice, no matter what the cost?
Where have you neglected obeying God recently? Forgiving someone? Holding onto what He has told you to give? Serving others in love? Ask the Holy Spirit today to search your heart and find areas you haven’t obeyed. Repent and decide to change.