October 22-28, 2023
Obedience is better than sacrifice. This is taught to us in 1 Samuel 15:22, "Does the Lord have as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than a sacrifice, And to pay attention is better than the fat of rams." Obedience should be our top priority. When we sacrifice for God we release something to the Lord that is valuable to us. When we obey God we do what He says do, surrendering our will to His. Obedience displays our priority and motives. What are the benefits of obedience? Let's reflect on these blessings this month as we explore the path of obedience. Obedience is through the Old and New Testament. This month we will use Psalm 119 as our anchor regarding the prosperity of obedience.
This week’s Bible Reading: 1Samuel 15:10-22
Focus Verse:
“Samuel said, ‘Does the Lord have as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than a sacrifice, And to pay attention is better than the fat of rams’” (1 Samuel 15:22).
Prayer Prompts
Day 1: Empowered. Did you know that the Holy Spirit empowers us through our obedience? Do you feel empowered? How can you approach each day more empowered?
Day 2: Refuge. Temptation is all around us, but our God is our refuge. By way of His word, He provides a covering, protection. What would be the result if you obeyed God's word more consistently? Might you be less tempted to choose your way over His?
Day 3: Light. The days are dark but there is light for the path. That light is the Word of God. It illuminates the schemes of the enemy helps us stay on the right path. Think of a time when God illuminated your path through your obedience to His word?
Day 4: Renew. Life is hard and we get weary.....tired. Reading and obeying God's word is how we are renewed in our minds and hearts. What are that verses that you read and obey to find renewal?
Day 5: Instruction. So many decisions are required in this life. It is often hard to know what to do. Yet, our God has gifted us with an instruction book. No it's not quite like a Lego instruction kit, however it does provide instructions that help us in making the many decisions necessary in this earthly existence. In what ways have you found instruction from God's word? What happened when you obeyed?
Prayer Prompts and Bible Readings are provided by Michele Bowden and Lisa Brass, Coaches and Digital Missioners with Visual Faith™ Ministry.
Find them on our Visual Faith Ministries page, on Instagram @victoryinart and @aworthylif, and on the web at victoryinart.com.