Former Blackout Artist

When Samuel reached him, Saul said, “The LORD bless you! I have carried out the LORD’s instructions.” But Samuel said, “What then is this bleating of sheep in my ears? What is this lowing of cattle that I hear?” Saul answered, “The soldiers brought them from the Amalekites; they spared the best of the sheep and cattle to sacrifice to the LORD your God, but we totally destroyed the rest.” 1Samuel 15:13-15

When Samuel confronted Saul, the evidence of disobedience was undeniable. The bleating of sheep and the lowing of cattle testified against Saul, clearly revealing that he did not carry out the Lord’s command.

But instead of admitting his failure, Saul shifted the blame to his men, claiming they were the ones who spared the best animals to sacrifice to the Lord. Saul’s excuse highlights an even deeper and more troubling issue: His lack of reverence and obedience to God’s direct command.

Reading further, something ominous jumps out from the text. Saul’s words “the Lord your God” instead of “the Lord my God” reveal the depressing state of his heart. This subtle but significant language indicates a disconnect between Saul and God. It almost seems to suggest that Saul no longer sees the Lord as his own God, a reflection of a broken relationship with Him because of his disobedience.

*Just a friendly reminder! As we go through the remainder of this chapter over the next several days, it’s good to note that we’re not standing in judgment of King Saul. This isn’t “Let’s all pile on Saul week.” But this chapter does challenge us to examine our own hearts and to consider the ways in which Saul’s heart might be a reflection of our own.

Today’s reflection asks us:

What are “the bleating of sheep and lowing of cattle” in our lives that testify to our own disobedience to God?

What might our response look like when a fellow Christian lovingly confronts us about our sin? Are we quick to admit when we fall short? Or are we like Saul and quick to make excuses and blame other people?

How is our relationship with God? Does He seem near, or does He seem to be in a completely different galaxy far away? Unrepentant sin has a way of blinding us to His glorious presence in our lives.

Today’s prayer: Lord, help us to obey Your commands fully and completely. When we fall short, give us the humility to take responsibility for our actions and seek Your forgiveness. Strengthen our relationship with You so that we may always call You “my God” with sincerity and devotion. Amen.