Then Samuel said: “Does the Lord take pleasure in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord?” Looking to obey is better than sacrifice; to pay attention is better than the fat of rams. For rebellion is like the sin of divination and defiance is like wickedness and idolatry. Because you have rejected the Word of the Lord, He has rejected you as king.” 1 Samuel 15:22-23 HCSB
Many times I have asked the question of people, “If you were standing before God and He asked you, ‘Why should I let you into heaven?’ what would be your reply?” The usual reply is, “I go to church sometimes and I try to be a good person and treat others fairly.” Many people think their good works will qualify them for heaven. But the Bible is very clear that it is not by our works but by our faith in Jesus Christ that our sins are forgiven (Ephesians 2:8-9) and that we are made perfect in God’s eyes by the sacrifice Jesus Christ made on the cross.
Samuel makes it clear that God desires our obedience over sacrifice. Rebellion against God’s plan and direction is as sinful as witchcraft and the occult. Our stubbornness is as bad as worshipping idols. Our disobedience is like turning our backs on God and telling Him that we know what is best and we don’t need His help. Saul dishonored God by his disobedience, which ultimately resulted in Saul being replaced as king.
Challenge: No one can be good enough to gain entrance to heaven. It is only through Jesus Christ that you can be made right with God. Do not be rebellious and stubborn; instead be obedient to God’s plan.