Bible Fails II

But Samuel said to him, “I will not go back with you. You have rejected the word of the LORD, and the LORD has rejected you as king over Israel!” 1 Samuel 15:26

Freedom Wars is a game in which incarcerated teenagers are placed in a vast battlefield to combat massive mechanical monsters. Each level has specific rules that players must adhere to. If you step out of line, cross a boundary, or make an incorrect move, you will receive additional years added to your prison sentence. Therefore, following the rules is essential for achieving your freedom.

King Saul was a hotheaded go-getter. He had ambitions that made him a charismatic leader. Israel’s first king carried himself with the confidence of a natural leader. But his major flaw was ignoring the rules God set for him. In 1 Samuel 13, Saul was waiting for the high priest to perform his duties, but instead of being patient, Saul proceeded with the sacrifice ritual without the high priest. This sealed his fate as the future king. In 1 Samuel 15, Saul was ordered to annihilate an enemy’s town, destroying both the people and the spoils. But Saul brought home some sheep as a reward for his victory, and that was the final straw.

Since King Saul didn’t value God’s instructions, Samuel prophesied that God would strip him of his title. Saul was heartbroken and immediately felt bad for breaking the rules, but it was too late. His neglect cost him a good run as Israel’s first official leader.

God’s first appointed king was a massive lesson for Israel, which believed that a king would make them a feared and respected nation. Just because someone has amazing charisma and innovative ideas doesn’t make them an appropriate fit for God’s leadership academy. Obedience and a moldable spirit were critical for the job, and that is doubly true for today’s leaders. When we embrace humility, we have the power to learn and respect God’s boundaries, and we can be used for any task. This is why God values obedience over gifts.

Figure it Out

22But Samuel declared:

“Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices

as much as in obedience to His voice?

Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice,

and attentiveness is better than the fat of rams.

23For rebellion is like the sin of divination,

and arrogance is like the wickedness of idolatry.

Because you have rejected the word of the LORD,

He has rejected you as king.” 1st Samuel 15:22-23

  1. Circle any words or phrases that are significant to you. Why are they important?
  2. How does God view ignoring his instructions?
  3. When God gives you a significant responsibility, how do you ensure you will handle it correctly?


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