Partial Obedience

In my quiet time this morning, the Lord reminded me (once again) that there is no such thing as partial obedience. I either obey God or I disobey. There is no middle ground.

God told King Saul in 1 Samuel 15 to do a job and to do it completely. Saul obeyed and did the job but he did it in the way he thought was best rather than doing it the way God said to do it. He was even proud of himself for his obedience (built a statue in his own honor) but God was disgusted by his disobedience because partial obedience is actually disobedience.

"What is more pleasing to the Lord: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, and stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols." 1 Samuel 15:22-23 (New Living Translation)

I have been rebellious and stubborn in my disobedience to the Lord over the last few days. I could tell you that I've been doing what I was supposed to do --- but the truth is it's only been partial obedience. And the Lord reminded me this morning that there is no such thing.

I know what I am commanded to do. I must now do it. Pray for me.