King Saul learned this lesson the hard way. When told to completely destroy the Amalekites, he carried out God's instructions. . .kind of. He destroyed everything except the best of the livestock and the Amalekite king. When Samuel confronted him with his slight variance from his directions, Saul says, "The soldiers took sheep and cattle from the plunder, the best of what was devoted to God, in order to sacrifice them to the Lord your God at Gilgal."“The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord; He directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases. All a man’s ways seem right to him, but the Lord weighs his heart. To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.”
Proverbs 21:1-3
I don't know about you, but it sounds like an excuse made up on the spot. But, but, we did it for the Lord! Uh huh. I think Samuel thought it was an excuse too, because he responded, "Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams."
How many times have I done the same thing, given an excuse for my wrong behavior?
I just wasn't awake enough to comprehend Your Word properly, so I checked Facebook while I woke up and then the kids got up early.
Lord, I couldn't stop to talk to that lady, because my kids were waiting in the van and I have to be a good mother first.
But if I brought her flowers, I might not have enough money for my church offering, plus the time involved takes away from other activities I do for You.
Visiting her in the hospital would be awkward for her too.
You know how long she keeps me on the phone. If I call, I probably won't get my Bible study lesson finished.
Yeah, right. Who am I kidding? I can use all sorts of good reasons to excuse my behavior, but God's not buying it.
To do what is right and just is more acceptable than sacrifice. To obey is better than sacrifice.
May God help us recognize our excuses and motivate us to obey.
Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him."
John 14:23
Join Nina at Mama's Little Treasures for more thoughts on this quote.
Photo Credit: TheTruthAbout
6 comments:
Well, friend, we did it again---focusing in on the same part of the verse. Excuses are so easy; obedience so...demanding. *sigh* I am thankful that we are called to higher things, just wish the road was not so steep!
Have a wonderful day. Your post blessed me this afternoon.
I like your jars at the beginning, those were cute. We do have all sorts of excuses don't we. Praise the Lord God recognizes them as such, if only we would. Thanks so much for sharing.
I like the way you zeroed in on one part of this passage. Well said. Well written. Our little "excuses" are riddled with rationalizations. Thanks for the thoughtful application of this week's quote.
Denise Hughes :)
Ouch! You hit on too many excuses I've used Tami. But how right you really are. And delayed obedience is also sin. Thanks for this.
Thanks Tami~
Another excellent post. Powerful truth you brought home, once again!
I could not help but think of this scripture, (one I memorized years ago, and can't seem to shake!!)
Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it. (James 4:17)
Ouch...
♥ you!
What a great start - with the PICTURE! I love to drink those - so it sure will give me a new thought with it! THANK YOU for sharing today.
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