The LORD Almighty opened another opportunity for Saul to listen, repent, and obey. The LORD had anointed Saul king over Israel. Now was the time to listen to the LORD Almighty’s message. This was God’s grace to help Saul. God would punish the Amalekites for their past sins against Israel. God commanded Saul to attack the Amalekites and totally destroy them.

Saul started well. He mustered a huge fighting force. He warned the Kenites to evacuate from the territory they shared with the Amalekites. Then Saul attacked and pursued the Amalekites all the way to Egypt. But Saul disobeyed the heart of God’s command. He spared the king and everything that was good. God regretted making Saul king because Saul did not truly listen. Samuel prayed all night and then confronted Saul. Saul justified his disobedience. He even built a monument to himself. He was led by his pride, not God’s word.

Listening to God’s word requires a response of repentance, surrender, and obedience to the LORD. God will not command us to destroy people. But he commands us to love him with all our heart, soul, and strength. We are commanded to follow Jesus and to love our neighbor as ourselves. Will you listen to God’s message, today?
Application: Father, forgive our rebellious and proud hearts. We want nothing more than to obey you.
One Word: Listen to God’s word