Follow God’s Instruction

But now your kingdom will not endure; the Lord has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him ruler of his people, because you have not kept the Lord’s command.—1 Sam. 13:14

Leaders experience many days of struggle and plenty of opportunities to make mistakes, but choice is to be made within every struggle or mistake. Will we allow God to get us back on track, or will we push through arrogantly? Will we let God take control, or will we try to maintain control?

First Samuel 13 describes the beginning of King Saul’s demise as a leader. His status as king corrupted him, then he chose to neglect the proper order of sacrifice outlined by God. His struggle with patience and pride led to his downfall. Samuel brings Saul the bad news.

“You have not kept the command the Lord your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time. But now your kingdom will not endure; the Lord has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him ruler of his people, because you have not kept the Lord’s command” (13:13b-14).

Unfortunately, King Saul’s character continues to deteriorate, and God ultimately gives Saul over to his own devices. “But Samuel said to him, ‘I will not go back with you. You have rejected the word of the Lord, and the Lord has rejected you as king over Israel’” (15:26).

Leadership Challenge: Read 1 Samuel 13 through 15

Consider Saul’s opportunities to follow God’s instruction and the arrogance that prevented him from making the right decisions. What decisions will you make today? What mistakes have you made this past week? Ask God to bring to mind mistakes made and steps yet to be taken. Write down His plans to make things right and move forward.