Readings for today: 1 Samuel 13-16
Saul is a test case in character. He is raised up from the smallest clan of the smallest tribe to be the first king of Israel. God promises to make of him a great dynasty. One that will last for generations. But when Saul’s character is put to the test, he fails. He lets fear drive him to make unauthorized sacrifices rather than wait for Samuel. He spares the king of the Amalekites and keeps the best of their flocks and herds. He makes foolish decisions and a rash oath that almost costs him his son. As a result, God rejects Saul and looks for a man after His own heart. “Then Samuel said to Saul, “You have made a foolish choice! You have not obeyed the commandment that the Lord your God gave you. Had you done that, the Lord would have established your kingdom over Israel forever! But now your kingdom will not continue! The Lord has sought out for himself a man who is loyal to him and the Lord has appointed him to be leader over his people, for you have not obeyed what the Lord commanded you.” (1 Samuel 13:13-14 NET)
Character matters. It doesn’t matter what age or ethnicity or economic status or professional position one holds. It matters at home with the family. It matters at school. It matters at work. It matters in life. And the more power and influence and responsibility one holds, the more one’s character is put to the test and revealed. It was Lord Acton who once said, “power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” He’s exactly right. All one has to do is look at the number of political leaders who use their position to enrich themselves or the spiritual leaders who use their authority to take advantage of their congregations or the business leaders who are motivated by greed and selfishness rather than a heart to serve or the parents who act like dictators over their homes. The key to building godly character is humility. Submission. Trusting God over our own thoughts or feelings. Obeying God even when it’s hard or doesn’t make human sense. This is the essence of what Samuel tried to tell Saul. God wants obedience rather than sacrifice.
Godly character doesn’t just happen. It must be built over time. It takes daily intentional effort. Time with the Lord every day. Worship with God’s people every week. A small group of believers who can hold you accountable. A commitment to serve and share your faith with others. Do these things every day over the rest of your life and you will find your character being shaped and molded by God’s Spirit to reflect the heart of His Son.
Readings for tomorrow: 1 Samuel 17-20, Psalms 59