August 4, 2018

Following God’s Order

“The David and all Israel played music before God with all their might, with singing, on harps, on stringed instruments, on tambourines, on cymbals, and with trumpets.  And when they came to Chidon’s threshing floor, Uzza put out his hand to hold the Ark, for the oxen stumbled.  Then the anger of the LORD was aroused against Uzza, and He struck him because he put his hand to the Ark; and he died there before God.  And David became angry because of the LORD’s outbreak against Uzza; therefore that place is called Perez Uzza to this day.”  1 Chronicles 13:8-11

Unaware of the disobedience, David led Israel in praise and rejoicing as the Ark of the Covenant was being brought back to Jerusalem.  Suddenly, the oxen stumbled and because the Ark was in a cart and not being carried by the priests, it appeared as if the Ark might fall.  Uzza took hold if it, thereby touching what was sacred, and further violating God’s commands and order.  Angry, God struck Uzza on the spot and he died.  It is interesting to note that David responded to God’s anger with anger of his own, and named the place where Uzza died “outburst against Uzza, or “breach of Uzza.”   

What spiritual truths can we learn from this text?  Let’s consider a few below.

Spiritual Truth:  we must follow God’s order.  God has an order to everything He does.  As we study His Word and engage in conversation with Him, we discern His order for our lives.   God instructed Moses how the Ark of the Covenant was to be carried.  Nothing had changed about that aspect of God’s order in the days of David.  Whether David neglected the word, jumped ahead of God’s order, or just plain forgot,

disobedience had consequences.  The same is true for us today.  “My people perish for lack of knowledge” according to Hosea 4:6.  When we study God’s Word, we receive insight as to His order.  As we draw close to the Lord in relationship and prayer, we receive revelation of His order.  Such revelation should always be measured against the Word of God, to insure we are moving in full accord with God’s purpose and plan.

Spiritual Truth:  new carts do not work

The new carts didn’t work for the Philistines; neither did they work for David.  What are spiritual “new carts” we encounter?  Simply put, such carts are man-made devices, programs, strategies, techniques, and formulas which run contrary to God’s Word.  They are invented and implemented as a way to invite God’s presence back into a congregation.  Religion can mistakenly fall into this snare of Satan, whereas God’s Word is clear that relationship is the key:  “If my people who are called by My Name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”  2 Chronicles 7:14

Spiritual Truth:  we cannot touch God’s presence and glory

Our God alone is worthy to receive all glory.  When we put our hands to His presence, we are putting our hands on His glory.  Such a move cost Uzza his life, and such a move can cost us as severely.  When people step in line to receive acknowledgment, praise, and recognition for what God has done, they are in the way of glory.  Should an assembly try to manipulate or manufacture God’s presence or glory, it does so at great expense.  Such episodes have cost many their spiritual lives.  Peter could not get any further than expressing his human desire at the transfiguration before he was stopped by the word of the Lord.  To put our hands to His presence and glory defies His Word.  When we get a glimpse of God’s glory, it can be staggering, weighty, and beyond description.  His presence can leave us breathless.  When He acts, give Him the accolades and honor.  To Him all glory is due!