One of the most fundamental truths in the Christian life is that obedience to God is more valuable than any outward religious activity or personal sacrifice. This principle is powerfully stated in 1 Samuel 15:22 (KJV):
“And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.”
This verse serves as a strong reminder that God prioritizes our obedience over any religious offering. While sacrifices, giving, and acts of devotion are good, they must flow from a heart that is fully yielded to God.
What Does It Mean That Obedience Is Better Than Sacrifice?
To fully grasp this truth, we must first understand the biblical meaning of obedience and sacrifice:
• Sacrifice often refers to offerings presented to God—whether in the Old Testament through burnt offerings or in modern times through acts of service, fasting, giving, or ministry.
• Obedience, however, is the heartfelt submission to God’s commands, regardless of personal cost.
While sacrifice can sometimes be an external act, obedience is a true test of the heart. When sacrifice is done without obedience, it loses its value in God’s sight.
Lessons from Saul: The Danger of Partial Obedience
The story of King Saul in 1 Samuel 15 teaches us that partial obedience is still disobedience. God commanded Saul to completely destroy the Amalekites, yet Saul spared King Agag and the best of the livestock, claiming he intended to use them for a sacrifice to the Lord.
But God was not pleased with Saul’s half-hearted obedience. Samuel rebuked him, saying:
“For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.” (1 Samuel 15:23, KJV)
Saul thought that offering sacrifices would compensate for his disobedience, but God saw his actions as rebellion. This shows us that God values obedience more than religious rituals.
Why Does God Value Obedience So Highly?
1. Obedience Demonstrates Our Love for God
Jesus made it clear that love for God is expressed through obedience:
“If you [really] love Me, you will keep (obey) My commands.” (John 14:15, AMPC)
True love for God is not just about saying the right things—it is about living in full submission to His will.
2. Obedience Leads to Blessings
God has promised great blessings to those who obey Him:
“And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth: And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God.” (Deuteronomy 28:1-2, KJV)
When we obey, we align ourselves with God’s plan and position ourselves for His divine favor.
3. Obedience Protects Us from Deception
It is possible to hear God’s Word and still not obey. The Bible warns against this self-deception:
“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” (James 1:22, KJV)
When we obey God, we walk in His truth and are protected from the deception of self-righteousness.
4. Obedience Brings Us into Closer Relationship with God
Jesus called those who do the Father’s will His true family:
“For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother.” (Mark 3:35, KJV)
Walking in obedience draws us into deeper intimacy with the Lord.
How to Prioritize Obedience Over Sacrifice
1. Commit to Studying the Word Daily
Obedience starts with knowing what God has commanded. Reading the Bible regularly helps us understand His will.
2. Act Quickly When the Holy Spirit Convicts You
Delayed obedience is disobedience. When God speaks, respond immediately.
3. Do Not Justify Disobedience
Saul tried to excuse his partial obedience, but God was not impressed. Instead of making excuses, we must repent and align with God’s Word.
4. Fear God More Than People
Many times, disobedience comes from fearing people’s opinions. Like Peter and the apostles, we must say:
“We ought to obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29, KJV)
5. Stay Accountable to Other Believers
Having godly mentors and Christian friends helps keep us on track. They can encourage us when obedience feels difficult.
Final Thoughts: The Reward of Obedience
God is not looking for empty religious rituals—He desires hearts that fully submit to Him. Obedience is the highest form of worship because it shows that we trust and honor Him above all else.
If there are areas in your life where you’ve been offering sacrifice instead of obedience, ask God for grace to realign yourself with His will. Remember, the greatest act of devotion is a life lived in total surrender to God’s commands.
As Jesus Himself said:
“Blessed (happy and to be envied) rather are those who hear the Word of God and obey and practice it!” (Luke 11:28, AMPC)
May we be a people who prioritize obedience, not out of obligation, but out of love for our Lord. For truly, to obey is better than sacrifice!
The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella
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