Day 68 – 1 Samuel: Character sketch of Saul

“But Samuel replied, “What is more pleasing to the Lord: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, and stubbornness is as bad as worshipping idols. So because you have rejected the command of the Lord, he has rejected you as king.” 1 Samuel 15:22-23 NLT

First impressions can be deceiving, especially when the image created by a person’s appearance is contradicted by his or her qualities and abilities. Saul presented the ideal visual image of a king, but his character contradicted God’s commands for a king. Saul was God’s chosen leader, but this did not mean he was capable of being king on his own.

From Saul, we learn that while our strengths and abilities make us useful, our weaknesses make us usable. Our skills and talents make us tools, but our failures and shortcomings remind us that we need a Craftsman in control.

Strengths and accomplishments

Saul was known for his personal courage and generosity. He stood tall with a striking appearance demanding attention and acknowledgement.

Weaknesses and mistakes

His leadership abilities did not match the expectations created by his appearance. He was impulsive by nature overstepping his bounds. He allowed jealousy to overcome him and specifically disobeyed God on several occasions.

Life lessons from Saul’s life

God wants obedience from the heart, not mere acts of religious ritual. Obedience always involves sacrifice, but sacrifice is not always obedience. Weaknesses should help us remember our need for God’s guidance and help.

Prayer: Father, thank You for the lessons we learn from Saul’s life and that obedience is a sweeter sacrifice than that of religion. Thank You that You are true to who You are and never changing and because of this our hearts desire to be obedient. Amen.