Everyone loves success and prosperity. When they succeed in whatever they are doing, they think they’re blessed by God. However, if they suffer or have a hard time in life, they must fall into disfavor with God. Is it true all the time?

 We read in 1 Samuel 14:44-15:31 that God made King Saul successful in his military battles. He secured the territory of Israel and defeated his surrounding enemies. In one battle Saul destroyed the Amalekites and captured the king. Yet, God said to Samuel his prophet that he felt sorry he ever made Saul King. “I greatly regret that I have set up Saul as king, for he has turned back from following Me, and has not performed My commandments” (1 Samuel 15:11). How could a person who didn’t obey God’s commands be successful? King Saul used his own prowess and might to defeat his enemy. To Saul God was only like a “chop stamp” to confirm his success. He even set up a monument in his own honor. He thought he was greatly blessed by God. As Samuel came to him, he greeted Samuel gleefully and proudly, “May the Lord bless you!” He didn’t realize that he had been rejected by God.

Are we proud of our success and achievement? Do we think we are being blessed by God? Is it possible we have been rejected by God, but we don’t know the coming judgment due to stubbornness and ignorance?