2 Samuel 6:3 They set the ark of God on a new cart and brought it from the house of Abinadab, which was on the hill. Uzzah and Ahio, sons of Abinadab, were guiding the new cart.
King David loved the Lord passionately. As soon as he was ordained as king he moved the Ark of the Covenant to a designated place in Jerusalem to restore worship. The ark was brought into Jerusalem on a new cart. Even though David’s intentions were pure, his actions were not acceptable. The Ark of God had to be carried on the shoulders of priests and not dragged around by a lifeless cart on four legged animals. Since the commandments were overlooked Uzzah, the priest who touched the Ark of the Lord fell dead. And David was angry because the LORD had broken out against Uzzah (2 Samuel 6:8a). Though David was offended at first, he went back to the scrolls of the Torah to understand the rule book and the regulations.
“Hosting the presence demands reverence and respect”.
Many are offended by God as they seek His blessings and benefits without following the bylaws. They want God to bless their business but look for loopholes to avoid tax. They host the presence of the Lord and even fervently preach His Word, yet live a compromised life. It is dangerous to live a “lukewarm lifestyle” that uses God for convenience. Hosting the presence of God must be holistic not half hearted.
Hosting the presence with reverence:
1. Ignorance: Ignorance is not an excuse. The Philistines sent the Ark back to Israel on a new cart (1 Samuel 6) and David ignorantly followed them rather than going back to the Mosaic commandments. Don’t follow the culture or customary practices and don’t conform to the ways of the world.
2. Infuriated: David was infuriated by the catastrophe but delving into the commandments of God opened his eyes to the truth. Don’t be offended by God. Reexamine your life and be enlightened.
3. Intimacy: Hosting the presence of God is all about intimacy with God. He does not want our money or buildings; He wants our time, love and intimacy.
“Intimacy with God and reverential fear of the Lord will make our heart His favorite abode”.
Prayer: Father God, teach me the nitty-gritty of walking intimately with you and making my heart your home. Amen.
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