April 30, 2012 (2 Samuel 6; 1 Chronicles 13; Psalm 68; Matthew 17)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “Then the Lord’s anger was aroused against Uzzah, and God struck him dead because of this. So Uzzah died right there beside the Ark of God.” 2 Samuel 6:7 NLT
Observation: David was having the Ark of God moved back to Jerusalem. He placed the Ark on a new cart. Uzzah and Ahio were guiding the cart when suddenly the oxen stumbled and Uzzah reached out and steadied the Ark. God had given specific instructions on how the Ark should be handled and carried. These instructions did not include a cart or anyone touching the Ark. Uzzah had good intentions but his intentions went against God’s instructions. Obedience to God’s laws are more important than our good intentions. The Lord’s anger was aroused against Uzzah because he ignored the instructions that had been given.
Application: It’s very easy for our good intentions or enthusiasm to lead us to do things against God’s commands. We must be mindful and careful to obey God rather than just doing what “feels” right. We must remember to not only seek the wise counsel of those around us, but to first seek God and His direction and guidance. To obey God is better than any of our sacrifices. Sin has consequences, so we should be careful to keep ourselves unspotted from the stains of disobedience. God is a loving God that has mercy beyond compare, but when He speaks, He says what He means and He means what He says.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank You for being the same yesterday, today and forever more! Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me everyday. Help me be obedient to Your word and listen to Your Spirit’s guidance. Keep me from being spotted by the stains of disobeidence. Keep me mindful of my good intentions and enthusiasm, let them not cause me to sin against You in any way, in Jesus name, Amen!