Witches' Brew

by Stacy R. Miller

There is a scripture which can make me cringe, mostly because when I read it, I am deeply convicted. It says that rebellion is like the sin of witchcraft (1 Samuel 15:23).

 

I began to remember the times when I have felt convicted to get up early and read my Bible, but I rebelled because I wanted to sleep. My rebellion is like witchcraft in the eyes of the Lord. Instead of feeding my spirit, I am stirring witches' brew.

 

I think of the many times my husband has asked me to do something and I have rebelled because I failed to see the point of doing what he requested. Again, I have started stirring some witches' brew.

 

I am reminded of the times when I have started to share something with a friend.  For a split second, I felt the conviction of the Holy Spirit, telling me not to share it.  Yet I chose to say it anyway.  My rebellion leads me to that pot of witches' brew again.

 

How many times have I neglected the nudging of the Lord to call on someone? When I fail to obey that nudging, even when I am still doing some other 'ministry,' I am stirring witches' brew. Saul knew this only too well, and it cost him the kingdom. First Samuel 15:22 tells us that to obey is better than sacrifice. God commanded Saul and the army to completely destroy the Amalekites and all that they owned. Yet Saul chose to bring back the cattle and sheep so they could offer them as a sacrifice. God wasn't interested in the sacrifice. He was interested in obedience.   

 

God has given to us everything we need to live holy and godly lives (2 Peter 1:3). If we feel like we are stuck in a rut, continuously stirring a pot of witches' brew, we can take heart! There is no temptation that we face that Christ has not already faced Himself. God is faithful in our times of temptation, and He will not let us be tempted beyond what we can bear.  Not only that, but He provides a way out so that we are able to stand up under the temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13)!

 

James tells us that we have not because we ask not. So, if you find yourself stirring your own pot of witches' brew, ask the Lord to help you find the way out of your temptation so that you can obey Him.

 

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© 2006, Stacy R. Miller

 

About the Author:  Stacy Miller is a SAHM who homeschools. She is actively involved in teaching at her local church. She has been writing professionally since 2003. Her website, found at Proverbs 31 Devotionals, is dedicated to helping women to become better wives, mothers, and women of God. To read more of her devotions or to join her mailing list, visit her website or email her at StacysProverbs@aol.com.