Proverbs 15:8
The LORD detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but he delights in the prayers of the upright.
1 Samuel 15:22
But Samuel replied, “What is more pleasing to the LORD: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams.
1 Samuel 16:7
But the LORD said to Samuel, “Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”
The story of King Saul's fall from grace is one of half heartedly doing God's will and of compromise because of internal greed and fear of man.
When challenged by Samuel the prophet, he showed, by his reply, that he had lost that face to face closeness with the Lord:
1 Samuel 15:30
Then Saul pleaded again, “I know I have sinned. But please, at least honour me before the elders of my people and before Israel by coming back with me so that I may worship the LORD your God.”
Saul didn't claim the Lord as his own God, but as Samuel's!
Our Heavenly Father isn't impressed with ostentatious shows of giving (sacrifices), but desires above all else, a closeness of fellowship, a whole-hearted following after Him. That way we can discern God's will in situations and learn to follow His Voice. Our prayers will be refocused and empowered.
Of course, there will be times of failure, but God sees the heart and where our loyalties lie.
Jesus gave His Whole Self for us, doesn't He deserve ALL our heart's devotion?
Prayer
Please save me from half heartedness in Your Presence Jesus! Keep me close.
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