Dictionary.com defines scorn as “to treat or regard with contempt”. For example, I scorn eating brains (yes, I actually have eaten them)! The word brings the idea of open, intentional dislike or hatred for someone or something. If I scorn something, you’ll probably know it. It isn’t something I keep to myself.
One day God asked the priest Eli this question regarding his sons’ defiling of the tabernacle and the people of Israel and his failure to remedy the issue (1 Samuel 2:22-25).
So why do you scorn my sacrifices and offerings? Why do you give your sons more honor than you give me—for you and they have become fat from the best offerings of my people Israel! 1 Samuel 2:29 (NLT)
God identified two issues here. First, Eli and his sons were scorning (treating with contempt) God’s sacrifices and offerings. These actions were open and intentional. Second, God accused Eli of honoring his sons more than God.
Both are deadly to our relationship with God.
Few of us would scorn God or His words intentionally. Few would do the things that Eli’s sons were doing. But many of us honor other things (or people) more than God. Think about it. How often do I prioritize other things over God? How often do I worry more about other people’s feelings or situations than I do God’s? How often do I let my kids get away with something just because it is easier than dealing with it? Does that honor them, me or God? How often do I fail to have a conversation with a friend because it is uncomfortable? Do I care more about my comfort (or theirs) or my obligation to help a friend and honor God?
No, we don’t normally scorn God, but I could make the case that we often dishonor Him. I know I do, and I am truly sorry God.
