What steps can we take to ensure obedience to God's commands today? Seeing the Scene in 1 Samuel 14:33 “Then someone said to Saul, ‘Look, the troops are sinning against the LORD by eating meat with blood still in it.’ And Saul said, ‘You have acted unfaithfully. Roll a large stone over here at once.’” Hungry soldiers butchered animals on the ground and began eating without draining the blood, violating God’s clear command (Leviticus 17:10-14). Saul reacts decisively, ordering a stone so the meat can be bled properly. From this brief narrative come several practical steps for our own obedience. Recognize Disobedience as Serious, Not Minor • God called the act “sinning against the LORD,” not merely a slip. • Small compromises often reveal larger heart issues (Luke 16:10). • Treat every command—big or small—as coming from a holy God whose standards do not shift (Malachi 3:6). Respond Immediately When Convicted • Saul doesn’t schedule a meeting; he commands action “at once.” • Delays breed more disobedience (Hebrews 3:13). • When the Spirit pricks your conscience, confess and turn without procrastination (1 John 1:9). Put Visible Safeguards in Place • The large stone became a practical tool to help the soldiers obey. • Modern parallels: – Internet filters or phone settings to curb temptation. – Scheduled giving so generosity isn’t forgotten. – Reminders on mirrors or dashboards of key verses (Deuteronomy 6:8-9). Anchor Every Decision in Written Scripture • The blood restriction came straight from God’s earlier law (Leviticus 17). • Regularly read, study, and memorize God’s Word so you can apply it on the spot (Psalm 119:11; Joshua 1:8). • Let Scripture, not culture or impulse, define right and wrong (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Surround Yourself with God-Fearing Accountability • “Someone said to Saul”—a soldier spoke up. Community exposed the sin. • Invite brothers and sisters to speak truth into your life (Proverbs 27:17). • Gather consistently with believers who will “stir one another to love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24-25). Submit to God-Appointed Leadership • The troops listened when Saul corrected them; order was restored. • Respect spiritual leaders who watch over your soul (Hebrews 13:17). • Seek counsel when facing gray areas so obedience stays clear. Remember the Why: God’s Honor and Our Witness • Eating blood dishonored the life-giver (Leviticus 17:11), dimming Israel’s testimony. • Our obedience displays God’s holiness to a watching world (1 Peter 2:12). • Joy grows where faithfulness thrives (John 15:10-11). Practical Checklist for Today – Daily Scripture intake (read, meditate, memorize) – Immediate confession when convicted – Concrete safeguards against known temptations – Regular fellowship and honest accountability – Willing submission to biblically faithful leaders – Continual focus on God’s glory as the motive Following these steps keeps our hearts tender and our actions aligned with God’s timeless commands, just as decisive obedience in 1 Samuel 14 restored faithfulness among Israel’s ranks. |
    |