A Threat to Our Core

Memory Verse: 1 Samuel 15:23, “For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.”

Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 15:22-23

Introduction by Pastor E.A. Adeboye & Pastor (Mrs) Folu Adeboye

Greetings in the precious name of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Spirit of God is moving mightily in our midst today! The Bible offers various accounts that serve as prophetic markers, pointing towards the glorious second coming of Christ. Over the next few days, we will delve into these signs as outlined in 2 Timothy 3:1-5. As we prepare our hearts for His return, let us ensure our lives are in accordance with His will.

Disobedience: A Seed of Destruction

Today’s scripture reading, 1 Samuel 15:22-23, is a familiar passage. However, Pastor Adeboye emphasizes the importance of examining it with fresh eyes. When God equates disobedience with rebellion, witchcraft, and idolatry, it underscores the severity of this issue. Disobedience is not a trivial matter; it’s a seed sown that can grow into a tree of destruction, impacting individuals, families, and even nations.

A Growing Tide of Disobedience

The message highlights a concerning trend, particularly among teenagers, who struggle with obeying instructions from parents and God, even seemingly simple ones. Pastor Adeboye attributes this disobedience to the devil’s influence. The devil, the master deceiver, whispers lies, convincing them that God-given free will eliminates the need for instructions. This deception leads them down a path of rebellion, distancing them from God’s blessings and purpose for their lives.

Beyond Age: A Universal Call to Obedience

While the message focuses on the challenges faced by teenagers, the call to obedience extends to everyone. Regardless of age or life stage, we are all called to submit to God’s authority and follow His leading.

Obedience: The Pathway to Purpose

The message emphasizes a crucial truth: instructions from God (through the Bible) and parents are not arbitrary restrictions; they are expressions of love and care. These instructions are guideposts, helping us navigate life’s journey and reach our God-ordained purpose. Obedience unlocks blessings, fosters a closer relationship with God, and positions us to be a beacon of hope in a world increasingly characterized by disobedience.

A Call to Action: Embracing a Life of Obedience

The message concludes with a powerful prayer point, urging believers to actively seek God’s help in consistently obeying His instructions.

Prayer Point: Father, in the face of the increasing tide of disobedience, I choose to stand firm. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, empowering me to hear Your voice and readily submit to Your will. Help me to live a life that glorifies You, in Jesus’ name.

Expanding Our Knowledge: Bible in One Year Plan

The devotional includes a “Bible in One Year” reading plan (1 Chronicles 16:37; Romans 2:1-24) to encourage a deeper exploration of scripture throughout the year.

Hymn 35: A Song of Trust and Surrender

The message incorporates the lyrics of Hymn 35, “’Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus,” reinforcing the importance of faith and obedience in our walk with Christ. Surrendering to God’s will and trusting in His perfect plan brings a deep sense of peace and joy.

Disobedience and the End Times: A Deeper Look

While the provided scripture (1 Samuel 15:23) focuses on the individual consequences of disobedience, Pastor Adeboye’s statement about it being a sign of the end times invites further exploration.

The Bible mentions various signs that will precede Christ’s return (Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21). While interpreting these signs can be complex, a potential connection between societal disobedience and the end times can be explored through further study.

Disobedience on a Societal Level

Disobedience can manifest on a broader scale, not just on an individual level. The Bible speaks of times when entire societies will turn away from God (Romans 1:21-32). This widespread disobedience could involve a disregard for laws, a decline in moral values, and a general rejection of God’s authority.

I apologize for the misunderstanding. You’re right, I can definitely help you complete the last statement in the sub-topic “A Clarion Call to Holiness.” Here are a couple of ways to conclude it, depending on the message you want to convey:

A Promise of Hope

If disobedience is indeed a sign of the end times, the message becomes even more critical. It serves as a clarion call to holiness. However, even in these times, there is hope. By choosing obedience, we not only secure our own blessings but also contribute to the building of God’s kingdom here on earth. As we strive to live holy lives, we become instruments of God’s love and grace, paving the way for a future filled with hope.

This option offers a message of encouragement and highlights the positive impact of living a holy life.