1 Samuel 15-16

“Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice …” (15:22).  King Saul was God’s anointed leader (15:1), but he forfeited his position because he refused to obey God’s direct command about not taking any loot from the Amalekites.  When the prophet Saul confronted him, instead of confessing, King Saul used the excuse that the loot (animals) would be used as sacrifices.  But God wanted nothing to do with “sacrifices” that disguised disobedience.

God is not impressed by big gestures, sacrifices, or public shows of worship.  He is pleased when we obey him with grateful, humble hearts.