"Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the
fat of rams" (1 Sam. 15:22). Two things are here placed in opposition—worshiping
God and obeying God. Which of the two does He esteem more
highly, with which is He most pleased? A Divine answer has been given
to this question—God values obedience more than anything else we can
offer Him. Do we really believe this? Do we act as though we did! Ah,
my reader, it is not a reverent deportment, a devout posture, beautiful
words, liberal contributions, which the Lord requires first from us. All of
these things are worthless in His sight, yes, unacceptable to Him—unless
they be preceded by a definite determination and a sincere and prayerful
effort—to walk in obedience to His commands. We are but mocking God to come
before Him as devout worshipers on Sunday, if the remainder of the week we
disregard His statutes and precepts. Observe carefully that the Lord gave
His Law to Israel (Exo. 20) before He gave them instructions
to build the tabernacle (Exo. 25-31). Lawless worshipers are an
offence to Him. The will must be brought into subjection unto
God—before the heart can worship Him acceptably. Beg Him to work in
you the spirit of obedience.