DO NOT WASTE YOUR SACRIFICE

1Samuel 15:22 WEB
Samuel said, “Has Yahweh as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying Yahweh’s voice? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams.

Dear Believer,

Did you know that human nature loves to pay some price, make.some penance or make sacrifices to please God rather than simply obeying God’s leading and command?

This is because man naturally has a rebellious nature. Making sacrifice gives man the feeling of being in control and having a say in his destiny.

God may tell man to refrain from a sin. Man goes ahead to commit the sin. The consequence comes. Man starts fasting, going to mountains and valleys ‘to get God’s attention.’

God told king Saul to wipe the Amalekites out. Saul failed to do so even though he was perfectly capable. He chose the best animals among the things he was supposed to destroy and claimed that he wanted to offer sacrifice to God with them.

God wasn’t impressed. He stated clearly that He couldn’t be bribed with sacrifices and offerings. He just wants you to obey Him.

Psalm 40:6 WEB
Sacrifice and offering you didn’t desire. You have opened my ears. You have not required burnt offering and sin offering.

He just wants open ears. Jesus said to the churches in Revelation, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit is saying to the churches.”

Your fasting and works are good, but they cannot take the place of obedience. Giving and other works will only have meaning if they are done within the context of God’s will. A man who gives or sacrifices in disobedience is wasting his sacrifices. Cain’s case comes to mind.

Believer, endeavor by the Spirit to always live a life of constant obedience and not a life that is always trying to use ‘sacrifice’ to correct errors that disobedience brought about.

May you live to please the Lord.

Have a pleasant day.

Your friend,
Deon.