“Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices
as much as in obeying the Lord?
To obey is better than sacrifice,
and to heed is better than the fat of rams.” (1 Sam 15:22)
God has rejected Saul as king over His people, Israel, because Saul doesn’t not listen to instructions from God; he was doing what he feels is right.
God is disappointed in Saul. Not only that, throughout the history of Israel and Judah, the kings failed God. Yet, again and again, God did not give up hope on His people.
Ultimately, God sent only His Son, Jesus Christ into this world for us. Saul prioritizes his own reputation and the approval of others, whilst Jesus priorities doing the will of the Father above His own life.
Saul disobeys God’s command but Jesus—the Prince of Heaven—humbles Himself. He prays to His Heavenly Father, “Not my will, but Yours be done.”
During this season of Lent, we often practice “sacrifices”—giving up certain foods, habits, or activities that may distract us. These are meaningful disciplines, but 1 Samuel 15:22 reminds us that God isn’t looking for the “fat of rams” or the mere absence of chocolates or social media. He is looking for a listening heart.
If we fast from food but continue to ignore the promptings of the Holy Spirit to forgive a neighbor or act with justice, we fall into the same trap as Saul. True sacrifice is the surrender of ourselves .
Prayer:
Lord, forgive me for the times I have substituted religious activity for real obedience. This Lent, help me not just to give things up, but to take Your Word in. Soften my heart so that I may heed Your voice and follow the path of Jesus, the one who was obedient even unto death. Amen.
