Got moles?

Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams. – 1 Samuel 15:22

While cutting our grass, I spoted rounded mounds of sandy loam on what had recently been a smooth lawn. A family of moles had emigrated from nearby woods to take up residence beneath our yard. The little creatures were wreaking havoc with our lawn by burrowing into the soil and disrupting the beautiful turf.

In some ways the activity of moles illustrates the dark side of the human heart. On the surface, we may appear polished and polite. But greed, lust, bigotry, and addictions can work inner destruction. Sooner or later, those sins will become apparent.

King Saul had a fatal flaw that festered beneath the surface – rebellion against God. He had been commanded not to take any of the spoils of war from the Amalekites (1 Samuel 15:3). But after a decisive victory, he let the Israelites keep the best of the livestock for themselves (v. 9).

When the prophet Samuel confronted the king, Saul rationalized that he had kept the sheep and cattle to sacrifice to God. But this was a mere cover for his sinful pride, which had erupted in defiance of the God he claimed to serve.

God’s remedy for rebellion is confession and repentance. Like Saul, you may be rationalizing your sin. Confess and forsake it before it’s too late. – Dennis Fisher

God wants complete obedience –

Excuses will not do;

His Word and Spirit point the way

As we His will pursue. – Sper

READ: 1 Samuel 15:13-23

One sin becomes two when it is defended.

The Bible in one year:

• Isaiah 41-42

• 1 Thessalonians 1