How does 1 Chronicles 10:14 encourage us to prioritize prayer and obedience? The Scene and the Warning “For Saul’s unfaithfulness he died, because he did not keep the word of the LORD and also consulted a medium for guidance. He did not inquire of the LORD, so He put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David son of Jesse.” (1 Chronicles 10:14) Why This Verse Matters Today • It links Saul’s downfall to two clear failures: – Prayerlessness (“did not inquire of the LORD”) – Disobedience (“did not keep the word of the LORD”) • God’s response shows that prayer and obedience are non-negotiable for anyone who would lead—or simply live—under His blessing. Prayer: Inquiring of the Lord • Prayer is our first reflex, not a last resort (1 Thessalonians 5:17). • It invites God’s direction (Proverbs 3:5-6; Psalm 32:8). • It recognizes His sufficiency (Philippians 4:6-7; Hebrews 4:16). • Failing to pray disconnects us from the only reliable source of wisdom (Jeremiah 33:3). Obedience: Keeping the Word • Love for Christ expresses itself through obedience (John 14:15). • Hearing without doing deceives us (James 1:22). • Obedience brings stability and blessing (Joshua 1:8; Luke 6:46-49). • Saul’s selective obedience shows that partial compliance is still rebellion. Consequences of Neglect • Loss of divine guidance—choices made in the dark. • Spiritual drift—hearts harden when prayer fades. • Discipline from God—“The LORD disciplines the one He loves” (Hebrews 12:6). • Missed purpose—Saul’s throne passed to David because prayer and obedience were absent. Blessings of Prioritizing Prayer and Obedience • Clarity: God orders the steps of those who seek Him (Psalm 37:23). • Strength: “Those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31). • Fruitfulness: Remaining in Christ through prayer and obedience bears much fruit (John 15:5). • Enduring legacy: “The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever” (1 John 2:17). Practical Ways to Put This First • Schedule dedicated, unhurried prayer time each day—guard it like any vital appointment. • Pray before every decision, big or small; make inquiring of the Lord your default setting. • Start Bible reading with a simple request: “Lord, show me how to obey what I’m about to read.” • Write one clear action step after each Bible reading and follow through within 24 hours. • Invite accountability—share your obedience goals with a trusted believer. • Replace worry with prayer on the spot (Philippians 4:6). • End each day by asking, “Where did I obey? Where did I hold back?” and address it immediately. Living the Lesson 1 Chronicles 10:14 stands as a vivid reminder that God takes both conversation with Him and submission to Him seriously. When we treat prayer as essential and obedience as immediate, we experience the guidance, protection, and favor Saul forfeited—and we honor the Lord who still speaks and still reigns. |
    |