Anointed: A Study in 1 SamuelSample

What does it say?

God instructed Saul to destroy the Amalekites and all their possessions, but Saul saved some of the animals. Because of Saul’s disobedience, God rejected him as king.

What does it mean?

When God told Joshua to wipe out all the people in the land of Canaan, it was because of the Canaanites’ great sin. Similarly, the Amalekites, who lived to the south of Israel, had sinned greatly in the eyes of the Lord. They treated the Israelites harshly when they were on their way out of Egypt and heading to the Promised Land in the days of Moses. In God’s time, He sent Saul to destroy everything and everyone in Amalek to purge the land of their sin. However, Saul obeyed most of what God commanded but not all. He kept some of their animals for a sacrifice. Saul learned a valuable lesson: to obey God is better than to sacrifice.

How should I respond?

God wants nothing less than our full loyalty and obedience. Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep my commands” (John 14:15). We obey God because we love Him. He requires full obedience from His children because it’s what’s best for us, and it fulfills His purposes. As you read through the Bible, keep a list of the things that God instructs you to do. Remember, not every command in the Bible is for you directly—like destroying the Amalekites! In what area are you giving only partial obedience? What attitude or behavior needs to change? Determine to strive for full obedience—not just 90%.