Devotional: 1 Chronicles 13:1-14

Today’s passage: 1 Chronicles 13:1-14

Helpful thoughts:

• We will be what might feel a little harsh on David and Israel today in order to learn what we can from this passage.  When we think critically about the actions of the people in the Old and New Testaments, we shouldn’t walk away thinking we are better than them, but that we can and should learn from their actions, just as we would want others to learn from our own sins.  All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.  We are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.
  • There are detailed instructions for Israel on how to take care of the Ark (Numbers 4).  These instructions were not followed because the people did not know them.
    • The Kings of Israel were to write their own copy of the law when they began their rule (Deuteronomy 17:18-20).
  • The ark was to be carried with poles by a specific line of priests.  It was not to be touched.
  • David did put a bunch of effort into consulting with people, and planning a big celebration, but he did not do any of this with a knowledge of God’s Word.
  • David was angry with God for Uzzah’s death.  In Numbers 4:15, God stated this would happen.
  • David’s fear of God initially led him to divert God away from himself.
• When we reflect on these passages, it’s important to hold grace, progressive sanctification, and our pursuit of holiness with the right balance.

Questions to consider:

1. What is the only way to know what the Word of God says?  What things can you do that help you to internalize the truth of God’s Word?  What motivates people to be in God’s Word and to strive to learn it?
2. Did David’s and Israel’s motives to bring the Ark to Jerusalem negate them from the responsibility to do things according to God’s commands?  We might say, “Well, their heart was right…”  But, if our hearts are right and we know God is holy and worthy of all obedience, won’t we also want to know what He has said, seeking to grow in doing the things He’s commanded the way He commanded us to do them?
3. Knowing that God is interested in (And holds all authority and justice over) not only what we do, but also why and how we do it, how good is it to know that Christ’s sacrifice was sufficient for all our sin?  If you and I were responsible to make a list for all the things we needed Jesus to die for, would we successfully write an exhaustive list?  How can this inability on our part result in greater praise and thanksgiving toward God?