PARTIAL OBEDIENCE II
NOVEMBER 17, 2024
TEXT: And Samuel said, “Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams” (1 Samuel 15:22).
We shall continue from where we stopped on this topic two days ago. Having examined what partial obedience means, we will now delve into the consequences of partial obedience.
CONSEQUENCES
- It can lead to separation from God. King Saul failed to honor God’s command, and it led to him losing favor in God’s sight. Sin and iniquity can cause you to lose touch with God (Isaiah 59:2).
- It can make a person lose out on blessings and protection (1 Samuel 28:6).
- It can facilitate spiritual decline and backsliding. When a person rebels against God, they will most likely find themselves on the pathway of backsliding, exactly as Saul experienced (Hebrews 6:4-6).
- It can lead to missed opportunities and perpetual regret. Saul failed God, and he regretted it until the day of his death (1 Samuel 15:26-31).
PRACTICAL STEPS TO ENSURE COMPLETE OBEDIENCE
To avoid these consequences, consider the following:
- Study and meditate constantly on the word of God (Joshua 1:8), to understand His will and commands.
- Seek guidance from the Holy Spirit in times of confusion (John 16:13), for clarity and divine direction.
- Pray for strength and courage not to fail God (Matthew 26:41), acknowledging dependence on Him.
- Surround yourself with supportive and inspirational fellow believers (Proverbs 27:17), for encouragement and accountability.
By implementing these steps, you’ll cultivate complete obedience, walking in harmony with God’s will.
SEARCHLIGHT: Obedience is crucial in our walk with God. Strive for complete obedience, as one who fails in even one command is similar to one who has failed in all.
PRAYERS: O Lord, help me to be wholly committed to You, in Jesus’ mighty name.
BIBLE READING: Micah 3-5, Luke 1
PST. MICHAEL OMOLE
