Worship is important but it is no replacement for godly living (cf. Psalm 40:6–8; Psalm 51:16–17; Isaiah 1:1–31; Jeremiah 7:21–23; Hosea 6:6; 1 John 2:3–4).1 With these words Samuel is not offering a critique of the sacrificial system but of the pagan idea that formal religion (e.g., sacrifices) provides an excuse for disobedience.2 The Lord does not need sacrifices (see Psalm 50:1–23), but his people need sacrifices in order to approach and meet with him (see Leviticus 1–9).
22 And Samuel said, “Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams.