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Many of us have likely told what we considered "little white lies," where we justified our lying with one or more excuses. While these lies may have seemed insignificant, especially when we told them to avoid hurting others' feelings, the fact remains that lying is noted as a sin throughout the Bible, especially in Exodus 20:16. Furthermore, telling such lies can have unforeseen consequences, especially when the truth comes to light.
Likewise, this principle also applies to disobeying God in general. It can be tempting to commit a sin or disobey God's will for us when we perceive these rebellious actions to be safer, more profitable, or even helpful to others. However, Proverbs 3:7 and 26:12 warn against being wise in our own eyes, while 3:15 notes the importance of trusting in God's wisdom over our limited understanding. Furthermore, the Bible provides countless examples of the serious consequences for those who disobey God, even when they believe their actions are justified.
A noteworthy example comes from 1 Samuel 13, where King Saul was waiting to lead his people in battle against a vicious Philistine army. Saul was previously commanded by Samuel the priest in 1 Samuel 10:8 to wait for him to come and offer a sacrifice to God before Saul went to battle. However, as days passed by without Samuel's appearance and his solders began abandoning him, Saul's patience began to wane. Unfortunately, after seven days, Saul chose to disobey and unlawfully offered the sacrifice, rashly attempting to receive God's blessing. Once Samuel appeared right as Saul finished the sacrifice, the Lord shared his disapproval through the priest, who condemned Saul's foolish disobedience. Furthermore, Samuel proclaimed God's punishment to Saul, who, due to his disobedient actions, lost the opportunity to continue his royal lineage and would later lose his kingship to another man God chose, whom the Scriptures later revealed to be David. Despite believing his actions were justified due to his circumstances, Saul's disobedience resulted in significant consequences.
As this account demonstrates, disobedience, no matter how small or justified we believe it is, is rebellion against God. Because this destructive behavior can have serious consequences, it is crucial that we purpose to maintain a constant obedience to Him. We can overcome the temptation to disobey Him by first reminding ourselves that God knows better than we do, for He is omniscient while our knowledge and perspectives are limited and flawed. Second, we can pray for the Holy Spirit to strengthen us, who helps us in our weakness as Romans 8:26 states. Finally, we can build our trust in God by obeying Him in all things, especially the small ones, so that our faith will be strong when greater challenges come our way. By doing these things, we can resist the temptation to disobey God, even amid great temptation.
Our acts of disobedience, no matter how seemingly insignificant, can have significant consequences on our relationship with God, our spiritual walk, and our blessings. This is made apparent throughout the Scriptures, especially in King Saul's account. Fortunately, by remembering God's omniscience, requesting the Holy Spirit's strength, and building our faith, we not only grow in obedience but also increase our immunity to disobedience's temptation.
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