Read: 1 Samuel 11-15
Today’s reading was hard for me because I had a difficult time fully understanding all of it. I did spend some time researching and breaking down these chapters; so hopefully what I share can help you too. Information was found at Bibleref.com, 2belikechrist.com, Biblehub.com, and Enduringword.com, and of course in The Holy Bible.
In chapter 11, the Ammonites threatened the Israelites of Jabesh Gilead with a humiliating agreement. The people asked for time to think it over, during which they reached out for help. Saul decided to step up and rescue them. Even though Saul had doubters, he was able to lead them to victory over the Ammonites. Afterwards, when his people wanted to punish those who doubted him, Saul showed mercy and gave the credit to God instead.
In chapter 12, Samuel stepped away from leadership. He urged the people to stay obedient to God, even though they were given a human king -Saul. The people recognized their sin in asking for a human king. Samuel again urged them to be fully obedient to God. The key word there is fully.
In chapter 13, Saul started to struggle in his obedience to the Lord. He gave in to pressure, fear, and impatience. As a sinful human, Saul took matters into his own hands instead of waiting on God. Samuel told Saul that not obeying God was foolish (1 Samuel 13:13). Because of this, Samuel told him that he and the kingdom would not endure (1 Samuel 13:14).
In chapter 14, Jonathan showed us what real faith looks like. He trusted God fully going into battle, and God brought victory. Meanwhile, Saul made a reckless and impulsive vow that ended up hurting his people. Again, we can see the difference between trusting God and acting on impulse.
In chapter 15, Saul disobeyed God again… Come on man… He tried to justify his actions, but Samuel made it clear that partial obedience is still disobedience.
“To obey is better than sacrifice…” -1 Samuel 15:22
Because of this, God rejected Saul as king. This shows that God cares more about a heart that is fully surrendered than outward actions that look good on the surface.
“…rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry…” -1 Samuel 15:23
Actions may speak louder than words, but the heart behind those actions speaks the loudest.
When we stand before God one day, we won’t be able to justify or explain away our sin. We can’t bargain or negotiate our way into heaven. Scripture is clear, we are called to admit, believe, and confess. God wants all of us, our whole hearts and minds, not just the parts that we are willing to give.
Discussion Question
- Where in your life are you choosing partial obedience instead of full obedience?
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A Note from the Author
Hello everyone,
I wanted to take a moment to share a bit about the Bible verse studies, devotionals, and prayers that I put together. While I strive to offer meaningful insights and reflections, it’s important to clarify that I am not a trained or licensed biblical professional. My goal is not to provide expert theological advice but to share my personal knowledge, beliefs, and experiences as I read and reflect on the Holy Bible.
The insights I offer come from my own understanding and spiritual journey. I approach these reflections with the intention of sharing what personally resonates with me, what I’ve learned through my own study of Scripture, and what the Holy Spirit is sharing through me. I hope these thoughts are helpful and encouraging, but they are based on my personal perspective rather than formal theological training.
This specific Bible study is based off the book A Beautiful Year in the Bible The 52-Week Bible Study for Women by a series of wonderful authors Copyrighted by Alabaster Creative Inc. I do not own the rights to this book and am not claiming to. I am using the book to create my own version of the Bible in 365 days and continue to direct God’s word towards women, more specifically mothers.
Thank you for your understanding and for joining me in this journey of faith and reflection.
Blessings,
Maria Wilcoxon
*The header image is not mine and was taken from Pinterest
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