VALUE GOD’S VOICE OVER REPUTATION
Some years ago, while still living with my parents, I was looking for the car key one morning. After a long search, I saw that I had locked it in the car. I walked to my Dad, explained to him, and he gave me the spare key, but not without a warning not to be careless. I apologized.
But like a setup, the same incident repeated itself that week. Dad was aware, but I told him I would find the key. Now that I knew where the spare key was. I took it and returned it after I opened the car.
I thought it was a done deal, but the next day, Dad asked, “Temi, where did you see the key to the car yesterday?” In a split second, I have a blanket answer, “It was just lying somewhere.” We both left for work.
As I sat in the office, the conviction of the Holy Spirit took over: “Did you just lie to your Dad?” I admitted my wrong. But the Holy Spirit was not done. He said, “Send a message to tell him the truth.” “Ah, Holy Spirit, how would my dad see me? I just settled down to pastor full-time. Holy Spirit, I have admitted I am wrong already.”
The room went quiet. I knew the Holy Spirit withdrew. I picked up my phone and sent a text apologizing for lying and told him the truth. I had peace of mind immediately.
If you choose reputation over the correction of the Holy Spirit, you will not grow as a believer, and you will run into a lot of trouble eventually. Do not train your heart in disobedience. It is not wise.
That was the error of King Saul. He wanted public honour in his disobedience. He chose reputation over obedience:
1 Samuel 15:22, 30 NLT
[22] But Samuel replied, “What is more pleasing to the Lord: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams.
[30] Then Saul pleaded again, “I know I have sinned. But please, at least honor me before the elders of my people and before Israel by coming back with me so that I may worship the Lord your God.”
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