Fear God Not Man

Saul was chosen by the Lord to reign over Israel (1 Sam 9:17). When “the Spirit of God came upon him” (1 Sam 10:10), he led the people into victory (1 Sam 11:13). But in order for them to have continued success, they must “fear the Lord, and serve Him” (1 Sam 12:14). After Saul’s son, Jonathan, “smote the garrison of the Philistines that was in Geba” (1 Sam 13:3), the Philistines gathered to avenge their defeat. But the people trembled and hid themselves (1 Sam 13:6). Saul tried to keep them from fleeing by forcing himself to offer “a burnt offering” (1 Sam 13:12). The prophet Samuel rebuked Saul for his foolishness, because he feared men rather than God! Later, when Jonathan and his armorbearer killed about 20 Philistines in another garrison, Saul called Ahia the priest to bring “the ark of God” (1 Sam 14:18).

He tried to use it like the elders of Israel did (1 Sam 4:3), to make it look that God was on his side. But Saul had no fear of God in that decision! After his battle against Amalek (v. 7), Saul finally admitted to Samuel that he disobeyed God’s commandment, because he “feared the people, and obeyed their voice!” Then he tried to justify his action by making sacrifices “of the spoil” (v. 21). But like the Pharisees who also “feared the people” (Mk 11:32), it was all a religious show (Isa 29:13)!

Sadly, most people today, especially some preachers, compromise their faith (1 Ki 18:21), by fearing man rather than God (Prov 29:25). The remedy is to make sure that we are “on the Lord’s side” (Ex 32:26). We get there by having “the fear of the Lord” (Prov 9:10); especially before we make any life-changing decisions (Isa 30:21). He stands ready to be our “Helper” (Heb 13:6), so we no longer have to fear what man shall do unto us! God bless you!

- Pastor Melito Barrera