You acted foolishly, Samuel said. You have not kept the command the Lord your God gave you. (1 Sam. 13:13)

SOME TODAY THINK THAT CHARACTER might just be negotiable. To them, policy that coincides with their philosophy matters more; to others personal charisma and smooth words are important, and to still others, a hard-nosed, brawling approach is the answer. Citizens may unfortunately care less about a candidate’s failings; because, after all, a candidate who is a little shady, intemperate and unfaithful makes them feel better about their own lives.

But it is never so with God. This sad story is proof. Saul became weary of waiting for the man of God to show up and conduct the sacrificial ceremony. He figured he was just as capable as a prophet. He went against a command of God and presented his own burnt offering to the Lord. And God promised to remove him from his position. Saul’s dynasty would come to an abrupt end. Saul’s place would be given to another, a man after God’s heart.

The decay of Saul’s character decreed his legacy. He is remembered more for his sins than his successes. Just as voters today may choose a candidate who matches them and reflects their values, God chose a man who mirrored His heart. God chose David to be the next “commander” over His people. You may be assured that wherever a Saul is rebelling, a David is in the wings. God prepares sheep-herders to be kings because character affects kingdom and dictates legacy.

Be a man or woman who mirrors God’s heart.

Valorie Quesenberry is a pastor’s wife, mother, author, speaker and editor of a publication for Christian women. She has a passion to communicate biblical truth for today’s issues.

© 2018 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.