In Samuel 13:8b and 12b Saul is speaking, "Samuel did not come," so "I forced myself to offer a sacrifice on the altar fire."
Saul, disappointed and perhaps angry that Samuel had not kept his word and been there to support Saul before his battle, finally took matters into his own hands and began to prepare a sacrifice offering to the Lord. Doing this on his own was an act of disobedience to God. At this point, Samuel told him, because of his disobedience, God would take his promise back, the promise of keeping the kingdom in Saul's family.
Have you felt like Saul? I have. I've known the disappointment of not receiving promised support at a time of crisis. And I've also taken things into my own hands, losing privileges promised because of my disobedience of trying to control a situation. Failure can bring great teaching!
Now, I know that even with disappointments, I must learn to wait upon the Lord, to inquire of whoever is in authority as to what the next step must be, and be obedient to that new task.
God, my nature is to get a job done, much like Saul. But, it gets in the way of being obedient. Create in me a pure heart that waits for new instructions. Help me to hear the Holy Spirit's check so that I do not try to control. Keep me patient and without anger, so that I am not tempted to control situations that are disappointing. Amen.
If you are aware of this problem is your own life, pray the prayer above with sincerity. Don't forget; we are in this together. You've got a friend!
Jo INMN
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