What lessons can we learn about reverence for God from this passage? Setting the Scene “David and all Israel went up to Baalah of Judah—that is, 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 Chronicles 13:6) Recognizing the Throne of God • The ark is described as the place where the LORD “is enthroned between the cherubim.” • This language reminds us that God’s presence is not symbolic; it is real, holy, and majestic (Exodus 25:22). • Reverence begins with acknowledging God’s absolute sovereignty and holiness. Approaching God on His Terms • God had already revealed how the ark was to be handled—carried on poles by Levites (Numbers 4:15; Exodus 25:14). • David and the people were sincere, yet their method was flawed (they later used a cart, 1 Chronicles 13:7). • Lesson: zeal for God never replaces obedience to God’s instructions (John 14:15). The Danger of Familiarity • “All Israel” was involved, suggesting a national celebration. Excitement can blur the sense of awe. • Reverence means we do not allow enthusiasm to drift into casual treatment of holy things (Leviticus 10:1-3). • Hebrews 12:28-29 warns, “Our God is a consuming fire,” urging worship “with reverence and awe.” Joy and Reverence Together • David’s desire to honor God by bringing the ark to Jerusalem was right (Psalm 132:3-5). • Scripture never pits joy against reverence; they belong together—“Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling” (Psalm 2:11). • Proper reverence actually deepens joy because it aligns our hearts with God’s holiness. Personal Takeaways • Guard the sense of God’s holiness in every gathering—home, church, workplace. • Let Scripture set the boundaries for worship practices and daily conduct. • Cultivate awe by remembering who God is: enthroned, present, and worthy. |
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