It Matters!

When things are not done God’s way, something is bound to go wrong, sometimes even with tragic consequences. When David desired to have the ark of God brought to Jerusalem, it was carried on a new cart pulled by oxen. ( 1 Chronicles 13:7) However, this was not the manner in which God had declared for it to be transported. (note Exodus 25:12-14 & Numbers 7:9) When the oxen stumbled, Uzzah put out his hand to steady the ark of God and was immediately struck down by Him. ( 1 Chronicles 13:9-10) According to God’s command, the holy things were not to be touched by those charged with carrying them. ( Numbers 4:15) The death of Uzzah caused David to be afraid of God and he also became angry. ( 1 Chronicles 13:11-12) When the ark of God was eventually brought into Jerusalem it was done “ACCORDING TO THE RULE.” ( 1 Chronicles 15:13 ESV) This time -- as had been commanded by God through Moses -- “the Levites carried the ark of God on their shoulders with the poles” ( 1 Chronicles 15:15 ESV) and therefore the mission was successfully accomplished!

We might think Uzzah’s actions were well intentioned and good. He apparently did not want to see the ark of God get damaged. However, the problem began with the decision to transport the ark in a manner contrary to what God had long ago commanded. THAT RULE was to have been taken seriously as should be the case with all of God’s commands. Though others were involved in the decision to transport the ark of God in an improper manner, Uzzah unfortunately paid the price.

When THE RULES are ignored we should not be surprised when it impacts the outcome. As Paul wrote to Timothy to encourage him in his ministry regarding the manner in which he lived and served, he provided several illustrations relative to a faithful focus on the work. One of those was. . .

“An athlete is not crowned unless he competes ACCORDING TO THE RULES.” ( 2 Timothy 2:5 ESV)

If RULES matter in athletic competition, why should anyone not think they matter when it comes to our spiritual life? God may be more gracious at times than an athletic referee, but let us not take His grace and mercy for granted. Whatever RULES God has provided are to be acknowledged and followed as we seek to please the One Who in all things has our best interests in mind. We may not understand all the reasoning behind some of God’s commands, but if we look close enough we will most likely begin to see HIS RULES reflect something about His Holiness and the holiness He desires to instill in our life. ( 1 Peter 1:15-16) May our submission to His Will allow that transformation to take place as we maintain a seriousness toward living life God’s Way!

Have a great day LETTING HIS RULES RULE OUR LIFE!
Carl

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