April 22

2 Samuel 5:1-3; 1 Chronicles 11:1-3, 12:23-40; 2 Samuel 5:17-25; 1 Chronicles 14:8-17; 2 Samuel 5:6-10; 1 Chronicles 11:4-9, 3:4; 2 Samuel 5:13, 5:4-5, 5:11-12; 1 Chronicles 14:1-2, 13:1-5; 2 Samuel 6:1-11; 1 Chronicles 13:6-14

We may be shocked by the sudden turn of events in today's reading. David is placed as king over Israel, the Israelites are united in their decisions and as a nation, and the people celebrate as the ark heads toward Jerusalem. Yet suddenly, the party ends when Uzzah is struck down for touching the ark. What seems like a small infraction leads to his death. We may wonder why this extreme consequence occurs, but I think there are at least two reasons.

Uzzah disobeyed God's law concerning touching the ark, so he had committed a sin and sin always has consequences. They are rarely as severe as immediate death, but all sin is an infraction against an eternal, holy God. God is also showing that he does not need help. God is not weak and thus in need of someone helping to make sure the ark does not fall and break. God is God and we are his creation. He is the sovereign king of the universe, and we are his servants. When we get this order messed up, we find ourselves making foolish, sinful choices and reaping the consequences of our sin. So always remember—God is God and you are not.

Father God, help me to understand the severity of my sin, repent, and walk in obedience to your ways, living for your glory and your fame. Amen. 

Why do we often minimize the severity and seriousness of our sin?

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