Read : Genesis 11:26-32; 12:1-9
“By faith Abraham …obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went” – Hebrews 11:8
The word “sacrifice” brings to us, terrifying images of suffering and loss. In fact, our human analysis would rate sacrifice above obedience any day. On the contrary, God makes it clear that “to obey is better than to sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22).
The word “better” means “greater, to be preferred, an improved version, superior, enhanced, more acceptable, more favourable, higher quality, augmented and more desirable! The following reasons will explain why obedience is a greater thing compared to sacrifice.
It is greater to obey without fully understanding, than it is to sacrifice. It is often not easy to understand the implications of what you are doing. The reason why we do not understand is due to our stage of maturity in the Lord. I believe we will never fully understand what God has asked us to do until we begin to do it. Notice the Scripture, John 7:17. It shows us that it is when you do the will of God that you know His will.
It is better to obey a command that you would not naturally do, than it is to sacrifice. When the Lord directed me into the healing ministry, I did not fully understand the effect that it would have on my ministry. Until then, I had operated mostly as a teacher and preacher. Naturally speaking, I am a more calculating and logical person. It was not natural for me to move by the Spirit or minister things that are spiritual. It is one of the most difficult things I have ever done and I am ever grateful for people who helped me cross that barrier.