March 13

“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...” 1 Samuel 15:22

Saul claimed he had performed the Lord’s commandment until Samuel confronted him. Then he twice blamed the people for his disobedience. If he had acknowledged his sin immediately, perhaps his punishment would not have been so severe. Even if Saul’s intentions had been pure, he still disobeyed God’s decree. Partial obedience is just another form of disobedience. It’s important to remember that God does not need our sacrifice, but He wants our heart.

“For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it; you will not be pleased with a burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart.” Psalm 51:16-17

David had a great love for the House of the Lord and had given great sacrifices to God, but David understood that a person could give a sacrifice to God without a “broken and contrite heart.” God is not interested in, nor does He need, our stuff. But He is interested in our heart and obedience to Him.

Prayer: God, please show me what you would like for me to sacrifice to you. I want to be willing and have the right spirit. Show me how I can better give you my heart.

Jamey Winters, Next Generation Pastor