1 Samuel 15-Obedience Over Sacrifice
Read 1 Samuel 15:22
Today’s Truth
In 1 Samuel 15, God commands King Saul to completely destroy the Amalekites, but Saul partially obeys. Instead of fully carrying out God’s command, he spares King Agag and keeps the best livestock, claiming he intended to offer them as sacrifices to God. When confronted, Saul makes excuses, but Samuel reminds him that obedience is more important than religious rituals.
This passage is a powerful reminder that God desires our full obedience, not just partial compliance. Sometimes, we try to justify our actions, thinking that doing something “good” will make up for disobedience. But God values a surrendered heart more than outward displays of worship.
Discussion Questions
- Are there areas where you’ve been making excuses instead of fully obeying God?
- How can you shift your mindset from ritual to relationship with God?
- What step of obedience can you take today?
Application
Lessons from this passage:
Partial Obedience is Still Disobedience – Saul followed some of God’s instructions, but holding back in any area is still disobedience. (1 Samuel 15:9)
Excuses Don’t Justify Disobedience – Saul blamed others and tried to spiritualize his mistake, but God sees the heart. (1 Samuel 15:15, 20-21)
Obedience Brings God’s Favor – Samuel makes it clear that God values a heart that follows Him fully more than outward religious acts. (1 Samuel 15:22)
Are there areas in your life where you’re only partially obeying God? He desires full surrender, not just outward religious acts. True worship is a lifestyle of obedience. Choose today to obey Him completely, even when it’s hard.
