Key Text: 1 Samuel 13:12 KJV - Therefore said I, The Philistines will come down now upon me to Gilgal, and I have not made supplication unto the LORD: I forced myself therefore, and offered a burnt offering.

It was agreed that Prophet Samuel would meet up with King Saul and his men at Gilgal within seven days as they were waiting to engage the Philistines in a battle. As a priest Prophet Samuel was expected to offer sacrifice unto God in preparation for the battle. Unfortunately, just before Samuel showed up on the seventh day, Saul forced himself and offered the sacrifice when he saw the armies of Philistines advancing.

Samuel arrived Gilgal only to find out that King Saul had just offered the sacrifice he came to perform. He condemned the action of King Saul as foolish because he disobeyed the commandment of the Lord. The instruction given to Saul did not make any provision for him to offer sacrifice if Samuel delayed his coming. Unknown to King Saul, the Lord was proving him to approve him but he failed the test.

No matter how much pressure you're under, always do as the Lord commands. To obey is better than sacrifice: we cannot do evil for good to come. Every disobedience is sin so, we must be careful not to embolden ourselves to do anything in disobedience to God's commandment even when it appears that it will bring about a good result. Let us wait for the Lord: God's time is the best.

Prayer: O Lord, help me to patiently wait for you always, no matter what I may be facing, in Jesus' name. Amen. 

Reflection: Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. - Psalm 27:14.