For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, And stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.
— 1 Samuel 15:23a (NKJ)
None of us really want to be rebellious or stubborn, but we can fall into it without realizing it. If I think I know best about something, then without realizing it, I close myself off to another’s opinion or view.
Stubbornness can be about small things as well as big things. We get used to doing things a certain way and we don’t want to change. It takes effort and usually takes us out of our comfort zone.
I am asking God to show me things in my life that I need to see. Never would I consider myself rebellious such as purposefully going the opposite way of truth or against what God says. On the other hand, there is stubbornness.
“Stubbornness is as idolatry”. Perhaps this means when I am not open to another’s view or opinion, I’m really worshipping my own view because I think I know best. Believe me, I have been there, quick to make a judgment or not listen because I’ve already made up my mind.
When I ponder this, I see a need for humility. If I am willing to listen to different views from people, a better avenue could open up for me. I may see something that will really help me in making my decision.
Being afraid to hear another person’s opinion just means I’m stuck in my own way – stubborn. And what if it obstructs me from hearing God, too? None of us want that.
God is always wanting to help us. By showing us through the life of King Saul in 1 Samuel 15 and telling us that rebellion and stubbornness are not good, we read what happened to King Saul. He would not let go of his view, opinion and way. So he lost.
I see that I have been wrong about some things. This does not bring condemnation or guilt, but when I admit it, I am free to be able to really listen and hear. Thank you, dear Father, for helping me and others to trust You and let go of always having to be “right”.
Because of Jesus’ resurrection, His death, burial and glorious rising, we are able to live the new life He has given us – a life of truth and honesty. The depth of His love is greater than we can think or imagine.
Let go of rebellion and stubbornness. They only bring death. You are a new creation.
You make the choice.
“Today’s choices build your tomorrows”
Jesus Permitted Them