1Samuel 13:13-14 (KJV) “And Samuel said to Saul, Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the LORD thy God, which he commanded thee: for now, would the LORD have established thy kingdom upon Israel forever. [14] But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the LORD hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the LORD hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the LORD commanded thee.”
The context of today’s Scriptural text is Saul’s act of offering a sacrifice instead of waiting for prophet Samuel. Prophet Samuel describes king Saul’s act of disobedience as an act of foolishness – “Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the LORD thy God, which he commanded thee.” This act of disobedience aborted Saul’s destiny. See! Not every loss in a person’s life is caused by enemies; some are caused by failure to obey God fully. Obedience is better than sacrifice. The act of disobedience is so costly. Spiritual impatience can cost long-term blessing.
The replacement for king Saul was David, a man after God’s own heart. The cure for the spirit of disobedience is being a “man after God’s own heart.” “A man after God’s own heart” does not mean sinless perfection, but a heart inclined toward obedience, a spirit responsive to correction, and a life aligned with God’s purposes.
Written by: Andrew A. Esemudje