Impatience Leads to Sin
1 Samuel 13:13 Saul has incited war with the Philistines, and he is ill prepared. He has become impatient which leads to sin against the Lord.
12/15/20252 min read
And Samuel said to Saul, “You have done foolishly. You have not kept the commandment of the Lord your God, which He commanded you. For now the Lord would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. 1 Samuel 13:13 (NKJV)
In his second year as king, Saul has only built an army of 3000 men. Sauls son, Johnathan initiates a conflict with the Philistines by attacking a garrison at Geba which provokes a massive military buildup with overwhelming numbers. Scared, soldiers from Sauls army start to flee and Saul, facing pressure and the absence of the prophet Samuel, takes matters into his own hands and offers the burnt offering himself. This act of disobedience to God's command is a pivotal moment in the chapter, demonstrating Saul's impatience and lack of faith. Samuel shows up right after the sin and tells Saul that his kingship will end with him. God had someone else in mind who has a heart for him.
Just like Saul, we can get impatient and get ourselves into trouble. How does impatience affect us? It can lead to physical injury as a result of not paying attention, rushing ahead, or missing an important piece of information. It can lead to miscommunication because no one asked appropriate questions or didn’t take the time to explain or listen. It can lead to long-term consequences, such as when Saul’s descendants lost their birthright to the kingdom of Israel. It can lead to damaged property due to hasty action or lack of understanding. Impatience is a sin that hurts us and God doesn't want it consuming us. Psalm 37:7-9 says “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices! Refrain from anger and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil. For the evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land”
When something is troubling you, go to God first with prayer, casting your worries on him. Choose to wait on His timing instead of acting hastily. Get support of your pastor or a fellow believer who is walking with God. They can offer wise counsel. Read your bible daily because it has the answers. Be patient, knowing God works even when you feel He's silent, fostering growth and allowing His timing. Don't let impatience lead you to sin.