Topic: A Costly Assumption
Opening Prayer: Dear Lord, grant me understanding and illumination as I ponder on your word in Jesus name.
Scripture: 2 Samuel 6:1–23
Reflection
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
• Is there any warning for me to heed?
Scripture Union Daily Guide 16th June 2020 Outline
Having made Jerusalem the capital city, David decides to bring in the Ark in order to make it the religious centre of Israel. A new cart was used to transport the Ark of the Covenant from Abinadab’s house. See 1 Samuel 6:13–7:1 for some background. The Philistines had returned the Ark on a new cart (1 Samuel 6:7–12). David also used the same method in vv.2 and 3. But what was God’s instruction for movement of the Ark? Read Exodus 25:12–15.
How often do you use worldly methods in ministry that are contrary to God’s ways? Despite the dancing and music (praise and worship) and Uzzah’s good intention, tragedy struck as God’s anger burned against Uzzah. Why? What lesson(s) can we learn from this? We must avoid presumptions, but keep to simple instructions, if we must go far in ministry. Uzzah’s death created so much fear in David that he left the Ark behind with Obed–Edom.
After three months, news of God’s blessing upon Obed–Edom, a non–Israelite, inspired David to go for the Ark. He now followed God’s instructions (vv.12–13). Why did Michal stand aloof? Had she worked in harmony with her husband, as couples should, she would not have despised him and ended up barren.
Practice/Word Application
• So: Learn from your mistakes and move on.
Prayer Points
• Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins; Let them not have dominion over me. Psalm 19:13.
• Pray for your Pastor and other Church leaders to be effective in ministry: clarity of message, courage to be scriptural, power of the Holy Spirit and exemplary life style.
• Offer a prayer of faith in line with Genesis 17:6
Read the Bible in one Year
Jer. 32–33; Matt. 26:26–50
Scripture Union Daily Guide 16th June 2020 – Scripture Union is an international, inter-denominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God.
