Ezra 10 / 1 Corinthians 6 / Psalm 31:9-18 / Proverbs 21:3
Pleading and bargaining… making excuses… avoiding the truth… all these are possible responses when we’re “caught” doing something wrong. “I’ll do better next time.” “I didn’t know it was wrong.” Have you ever personally felt terrible when you’ve done something you should not? Even if no one told you – although most of us were raised being taught right from wrong – you are innately aware when you’re off track.
Romans 2:14-16 states Even Gentiles, who do not have God’s written law, show that they know his law when they instinctively obey it, even without having heard it. They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right. And this is the message I proclaim—that the day is coming when God, through Christ Jesus, will judge everyone’s secret life.
Each of us is born with that sense of right and wrong because of God’s law being written in our hearts. This is separate from salvation or the new birth. Even those who reject Jesus Christ have a sense of moral right and wrong. I’ve met some of the most loving and kind people who do not follow Jesus Christ.
The verse from today’s reading that has me considering these thoughts is Proverbs 21:3 which states The Lord is more pleased when we do what is right and just than when we offer Him sacrifices.
This also reminds me of the exchange between Saul and Samuel after Saul offered the sacrifice without waiting for Samuel. Saul was told to wait to offer sacrifices until Samuel arrived, but when Samuel was delayed Saul offered the sacrifice without the prophet. Not only did Saul not obey the prophet, but it was also inappropriate according to God’s law for Saul to make such an offering.
The first thing Saul did was make excuses about why he didn’t wait for Samuel. Doing what was right by waiting would have been simpler, although not easy for Saul since his men were growing restless and threatening to leave him instead of waiting for battle with the Philistines. His impulsive behavior cost him the kingdom and God’s blessing was removed from him that day.
What about you and me? How often do we request something from God, then grow impatient in the waiting? Many times, there is nothing we can do to change the situation apart from waiting for God to work. However, there are instances when we could do something to alleviate our suffering. But if God has told us to wait, then we must wait. If God gives instructions to go ahead in an area, it is permissible to move ahead.
The statement regarding us offering Him sacrifices is pointing to our excuse making or to our response of trying to make it right by performing another action. If we blow it by now obeying God in an area, our very best response is to ask forgiveness in humility. God will forgive us. There may be a consequence that has been set into motion by our disobedience, but God’s Grace will meet us even in the consequence.
You’ve heard the statement that it’s easier to get forgiveness than to ask permission. The only problem with that statement is the baggage you’ll end up carrying. Permission brings no baggage. Forgiveness usually demands a clean up crew. I’d rather ask permission, or better yet, know God’s Word and follow it to the best of my ability and understanding.
So, the next time you have a choice of obedience or your own bright ideas, I advise obedience. It may irk your flesh but in the end, you’ll be glad you made that choice. You heart and mind will be clear and there will be no need for a broom or mop.
