Bible Study Verse
I Samuel 15:22
But Samuel replied: "Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. (NIV)
Thoughts
Death was imminent. Quick action was required. Mel, Rusty's owner, shouted out at the top of his lungs, "Rusty!"
The Golden Retriever responded immediately. With speed that seemed quicker than air brakes on a semi truck, Rusty locked up all four legs, paws dug deep in the roadside gravel, and he came to a halt.
The automobile's bumper missed his head by less than a foot!
Rusty had witnessed the flush of a large covey of Bob White quail. One quail flew left across the paved road which was far below and down the slope of the steep hillside. Rusty went to retrieve the quail that he assumed had been hit as the shotguns roared. But, I had missed, and Mel had shot at other birds. The point is that Rusty's immediate obedience save his life!
(Jack M)
Action Point
In the verse above, we are told that to obey God is better than the most fantastic attempts at serving the Lord in our own way.
The internal fat of animals sacrificed in Old Testament times was considered the best part of the sacrifice. It was reserved for God alone, and was to be offered on the altar to Him. It symbolizes the most sincere motivation and our very best attempt to do for the Lord what we think is best.
But, God says that simple obedience is better than trying to do fantastic things for Him in our own wisdom and strength. Simply obey Him!!! That is best in His eyes. That is also the safest thing for us to do, and puts us in the place of blessing!!!
Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Teach your dogs to obey instantly. It will often be to their advantage; perhaps it will save their lives as it did Rusty in the true story above. There are many training tools available to us today. An electronic training system will enhance learning, and save the owner lots of frustration when the dog disobeys.
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