Saul did not offer as an excuse that he had misunderstood his instructions, or that they were not clearly stated. On the other hand, he frankly admitted the deliberate violation of his instructions in favor of his own wishes. Compare Saul’s position with that of Adam in the Garden of Eden, or contrast it with that of Christ in the mount of temptation. Before entering the wilderness to be tempted of the devil, Christ had the assurance that He was the beloved Son of God. Six weeks later, famished with hunger, and not knowing what was ahead of Him, He patiently waited for divine guidance. It was when He was seemingly neglected, and worn and haggard from mental strain, that Satan made every attempt to shake His confidence in God’s Word. But where Adam failed, and where Saul chose the downward path, Christ won!

Samuel’s rebuke was uttered in such a way as to invite contrition and humility, but in vain. The very presence of the prophet should have brought back memories of Samuel’s solicitude and selfless interest in months past. But alas! All these were forgotten. Saul sought to justify himself by charging that the fault lay with Samuel. As it was with Saul, so it has been with man all through the ages. When troubles press in, fear of impending danger crowds out sensible reasoning and induces a nervous impatience to have the problem settled at once. Under such stress the reason is blinded as to duty and substitutes in its place a critical condemnation of others and a violent determination to justify the course of action thus chosen. Former confidence in God’s protecting and directing watchcare give way to cynical unbelief and finally to rebellion.