22. But Samuel answered,“What pleases the Lord more:burnt offerings and sacrifices or obedience?It is better to obey God than to offer a sacrifice.It is better to listen to God than to offer the fat of male sheep.
23. Refusing to obey is as bad as the sin of sorcery.Being stubborn is as bad as the sin of worshiping idols.You have rejected the Lord’s command.For this reason, he now rejects you as king.”
24. Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned. I didn’t obey the Lord’s commands. I didn’t do what you told me. I was afraid of the people, and I did what they said.
25. Now I beg you, forgive my sin. Come back with me so I may worship the Lord.”