Mostly Right

On first reading it seems that the Lord treats Saul harshly. After all, he did most of what was asked of him. In fact, it’s very relatable. How often do we settle for doing most of what’s required for us, committing to something… mostly, or having mostly right motives? Many of us can probably empathize with Saul, but let’s not allow this to blind us to what’s really going on here. Take a moment to reflect on verse 9. Saul only spared the desirable things—the things that he and his men could benefit from.

Saul’s incomplete obedience was not a careless mistake; it was a deliberate choice. Not only was Saul disobedient, but also his motives were selfish. He allowed his insecurity to dictate his actions because he feared his men more than he feared God. This is so often the pattern in our lives as we fear how people will respond when we stand firm to God’s will for our lives. We find our security not in God’s affirmation but in the affirmation of our peers.

To ensure we do not stray onto the path of Saul we must ensure that we honestly endeavor to seek the Lord. We must allow the Spirit to search our hearts and bring to attention the subtle and subconscious ways we allow our insecurity to stop us obeying God’s will. It is only when we place our security firmly in Him that we are able to do this.

Thought Point

Do you put your security in what others think of you or in what God thinks of you?

Prayer Point

Invite the Holy Spirit to search your heart and bring to your attention the deepest motives of your lifestyle. Ask God to transform you towards Christ’s image.