The folly of using force

It is well to have a tender conscience and to obey its least monitions, even when men and things militate against it. Conscience, when enlightened with the word of God, becomes our pole-star for guidance through the maze of life’s circumstances.

King Saul fell because he acted on expediency. He prevailed upon his enlightened conscience and sought to supersede the divine order by offering a burnt offering.

He cited three genuine reasons that made it convenient for him to act that way: the Philistine enemies were threatening, Samuel, the divinely ordained offerer, had delayed and his men of war were scattering.

Yes, his arguments were not only genuine but even profound given the urgency of his predicament but he failed to realise the supremacy of a higher — obedience is better than sacrifice.

Compliance with the stipulated divine order of things precedes expediency and force in the kingdom of God.

Saul knew full well that offering a sacrifice was wholly outside his province, that was why he said that he forced himself. It seemed a small act but it was symptomatic of a great moral deficiency — lack of obedience to God’s commands exhibited elsewhere is his reign.

The lesson for all of us is that we should never force ourselves to speak, think or act contrary to the known will of God.

 It will cost dearly.  Learn to wait for God even if He comes after the allotted time has almost passed.

When God seems late, do not become god yourself and try to do what only God can do. It is always better and safer to wait for him, for his delay is not a denial but your trial. Pass the test of patience and you will be fully compensated for your lost time.

When the precise moment of your change strikes God will be there to usher you in, establish you and crown you. To run before God is to sink knee-deep into the swamp. For prayer and counselling call 011877180 or email mairos78@yahoo.co.uk