For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king (1 Sam. 15:23 KJV)
The Prophet Samuel said the solemn words above to King Saul. What did the King do that was considered rebellion in the sight of God? We might be tempted to think of rebellion in this context as we use it in everyday language as some act of violence or open resistance to a government. Rebellion against God merely is willfully knowing His commandments and disobeying what He has spoken to you.
The Lord instructed King Saul to destroy the Amalekites without sparing anyone or anything because they had attacked the Israelites as they came out of Egypt. The Lord explicitly instructed him to destroy everything. King Saul, however, took the King of the Amalekites alive and kept the best of the sheep, goats, etc. to make an offering to God. This act of disobedience was his rebellion.
When we know God’s commandments to us and consciously disobey what He instructs us to do, we are in rebellion. Disobedience is such a serious matter with God that He considers it as witchcraft, iniquity, and idolatry. Saul was rejected as King because of this act. The disobedience of Adam is the cause of unimaginable suffering and pain of generations of humans on the earth and in hell. Do not allow your heart to willfully disobey God’s Word, whether in “small” or “big” things.
MEDITATE
What was Saul’s excuse for disobeying God’s instructions to him? ( 1 Sam. 15:24). What are some reasons why we choose to violate God’s commandments?
APPLY THE WORD
Are you living in rebellion against the Lord in acting against His commandments? It is never well with us outside of His Word, irrespective of what we might be thinking. Allow the Spirit to guide you to make a turnaround and respond to His words to you in whatever area of your life you know might be out of His will.
PRAY
Ask the Lord to help you never allow your heart to become hardened against His words.
Recommended Read: Obedience to God is your very life
Foundational Read: What is a Daily Devotional?
