Roots of Rebellion

"For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft,
And stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.
Because you have rejected the word of the Lord,
He also has rejected you from being king."
1 Samuel 15:23

Partial obedience is not obedience. It is rebellion that turns aside to selfish desires while ignoring the wishes of those in authority over us. At first glance rebellion may appear insignificant, but don't be fooled. The roots of rebellion grow quickly and run deep.

God directed Saul to destroy the Amalekites. When the dust of the battlefield settled, however, Saul and his army spared the Amalekite king and the best of his flocks. With disobedience standing between him and God, Saul tried in vain to explain his actions. He claimed that he saved the best of the spoil as a sacrifice to God, but the true intent of Saul's heart was selfish gain. This one act of rebellion cost him the throne. Years later, it cost Israel the lives of some of its strongest fighting men.

Ultimately, all rebellion circumvents God's control even though its aim is usually directed at human authority. It quenches our fellowship with God and derails His blessings. You may think your rebellion is justifiable, but God never blesses anything that contradicts His will. Rebellion is always at enmity with God.

Ask Him to surface any hidden rebellion within your heart. When you come to Him in repentance, He always responds in love and grace.

Father, please surface any hidden
rebellion in my heart, then help me repent of it.
Let me respond with obedience to
You and those in authority over me.

This is from the book "INTO HIS PRESENCE" An In Touch Devotional by Charles Stanley.