Friday, February 19, 2010
Rationalization
(I Samuel 13:8-12)
Sin is not always impulsive. Frequently we devise elaborate reasons for our actions, even though we know they are sinful. Sometimes we make ourselves believe that sin was—in a given set of circumstances—the only viable option. Once we’ve convinced ourselves, we sin—and sometimes face the monumental task of convincing others as well.
Saul was in just such a predicament. Having illegally usurped the priest’s office, Saul—in fear and impatience—sacrificed the animals that were Samuel’s alone to offer. And, in providential poetic justice, Samuel arrived just in time to see the smoke arise.
Saul’s litany of excuses would almost be funny if it weren’t so pathetic. The brave king immediately resorted to the blame game—passing the buck. First, he blamed the troops who had deserted him. He had to act quickly, he reasoned, or face losing them all. Secondly, he blamed Samuel. “If only Samuel had been punctual, I wouldn’t have been forced to sin!” Thirdly, he blamed the Philistines. “The Devil made me do it,” he reasoned. Lastly, he blamed himself while still declaring his innocence: “I forced myself,” he pleaded (11, 12).
Ultimately, none of Saul’s excuses worked with Samuel. A wise old preacher used to say, “An excuse is the skin of a reason stuffed with a lie.” Samuel viewed Saul’s rationalizations the same way.
Perhaps the saddest part of the story is that Saul likely believed his own excuses. It is apparent that he had rehearsed them beforehand—just in case. At any rate, he believed his rationalizations enough to act upon them—and then defend his sorry conduct. Be careful how you justify your actions. You may one day have to convince others; and you will ultimately have to convince God.
