“You have done a foolish thing,” Samuel said. “You have not kept the command the Lord your God gave you.” (1 Sam. 13:13)
Expanded Passage: 1 Samuel 13:8-14
Some people think character is negotiable. To them, policy that coincides with their philosophy matters more. To others, personal charisma and smooth words are important, or a hard-nosed, brawling approach is the answer. Unfortunately, citizens may care less about a candidate’s failings, because after all, a candidate who is a little shady, intemperate, and unfaithful makes them feel better about their own lives.
But it is never so with God. This sad story is proof. Saul became weary of waiting for the man of God to show up and conduct the sacrificial ceremony. He figured he was just as capable as a prophet, so he went against a command of God and presented his own burnt offering to the Lord. As a result, God promised to remove him from his position. Saul’s dynasty would come to an abrupt end and his place given to another, a man after God’s heart.
The decay of Saul’s character decreed his legacy. He is remembered more for his sins than his successes. Just as voters may choose a candidate who matches them and reflects their values, God chose a man who mirrored his heart. God chose David to be the next “commander” over his people. You may be assured that wherever a Saul is rebelling, a David is in the wings. God prepares sheepherders to be kings because character affects kingdom and dictates legacy.
Be a man or woman who mirrors God’s heart.
Valorie Quesenberry is a wife, mother, gramma, speaker, and author of several books including the Sisters in Faith Bible Studies (WPH).
© 2024 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
