1 Chronicles 13:1-14

LIVE IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD

Keywords 13:6

David and all the Israelites with him went to Baalah of Judah (Kiriath Jearim) to bring up from there the ark of God the LORD, who is enthroned between the cherubim--the ark that is called by the Name.

 

1. A holy desire (1-6)

David sought God’s approval and the full support of Israel in bringing the ark

back to Israel, saying “Let us bring the ark of God back to us…” The mercy seat

that covered the ark was the place where God met with his people; it represented

God’s throne and sovereign rule on earth. It was a visible reminder of God’s

covenant with his people. The desire to bring the ark back represented a renewed

and holy desire to live before God, previously neglected by Saul.

 

2. The wrong approach (7-13)

As the ark traveled from Abinadab’s house to Jerusalem, David and all the

Israelites celebrated before God with all their might. Everything seemed wonderful

until Uzzah put his hand on the ark to steady it. God’s wrath broke out against

him and he died (see Nu 4:15). This seems harsh and David was angry about it,

but the lesson here is that David had neglected the word of God regarding how

the ark was to be carried (Ex 25:12-15). To live in the presence of God is to live

according to his word.

 

Prayer Father, help us to seek and obey your word.

One Word Let God be the center of your life