1 Samuel 13:6-15
Key Verse: “Saul waited seven days for the appointed time that Samuel had set, but Samuel didn’t come to Gilgal, and the troops were deserting him. So Saul said, “Bring me the burnt offering and the fellowship offerings.” Then he offered the burnt offering.” (1 Samuel 13:8-9 CSB)
Saul found himself in a difficult situation as a leader. He was confronted by an enemy army that outnumbered his troops. His men were so overwhelmed by fear of the opposing army that some of them were beginning to desert Saul. Saul’s instructions though from God were to wait until Samuel arrived so that he could offer the burnt offering on behalf of the people. The problem was that Samuel was taking longer than expected. What was Saul to do as a leader? Unfortunately, instead of waiting for Samuel and following God’s instructions, Saul panicked and made a very poor decision. He took it upon himself to offer the burnt offering, something that he had no right to do. When Samuel finally did show up, it was too late. Saul had disobeyed God. And ultimately, Saul’s sin cost him his kingdom.
As a Christian and as a leader, there will moments when we are tempted to compromise our obedience to God’s clear instructions by taking matters into our own hands. Circumstances may appear to be unraveling around us. Fear may be gripping our hearts or the hearts of those we are called to lead and serve. In those situations, choosing to wait upon God and doing it His way may not appear to be the right plan of action from our perspective. But obedience is always best. What God calls us to do will always result in our good. Blessings flows from obedience. Jesus modeled this perfectly for us in His own suffering. As He headed to the Cross, Jesus chose not to take matters into His own hands, but rather submitted himself to the Father’s will. Like Jesus, no matter what the circumstances, we must learn to wait and to trust God’s timing. Our Heavenly Father knows what is best. And He knows when is best. Our job is to simply walk by faith, wait patiently for Him, and do what He has called us to do without compromise.
Father, I confess that obedience is hard at times, especially when it feels like circumstances around me are unraveling or are out of my control. I am tempted to want to run ahead and take matters into my own hands, instead of waiting on you and walking in simple obedience. I acknowledge today that You know what is best for me, and when is best for me. Help me today do what I know you have called me to do without compromise. Amen.
