In Order || Out of Order

Memory Verse: "David and all the house of Israel were celebrating before the Lord...when they came to the threshing floor of Nacon, Uzzah reached out toward the ark of God and took hold of it...The anger of the Lord burned against Uzzah, and God struck him down there for his irreverence; and he died there." (2 Sam.6: 5-7, NASB)

Scripture Reading: 2 Sam.6::1-23.

The people of Israel were returning the ark to its rightful place. It was indeed a moment to celebrate. The ark was being transported on a cart when the oxen stumbled. Concerned that the ark might fall, Uzzah (one of the men steering the ark) reacted instantly, only concerned with steadying the ark, not God's rules for who could touch the ark, he was struck down by God.

Uzzah was out of order.

Many in Israel, including David, did not understand these actions. But they were learning an important lesson about God. They were learning that He is serious about His Word. That His Word holds true in every situation. That we should not take His Word for granted. His Word is the key to success and pleasing Him. From His Word, we learn His expectations of us. How we should live. What we should avoid. The Bible shows that God rewards those who obey Him and take His Word seriously. Who apply it in their lives. His Word brings us into order. We suffer the consequences when we get out of order and disobey.

Many believers do not yet understand these truths. They think that it's acceptable to compromise. That they can do what they want, as long as they can justify their actions. Many seem more concerned about pleasing friends or acquaintances than obeying God and lIving according to His standards, worried that others might think them "fanatics." But God wants us to see that He always want us to obey Him, and follow His principles. He is a God of order and therefore hates every form of disorder- 1 Cor.14:40.

Today, seek to know God's Word. Don't take His Word for granted. Base your life on His Word. As you go about life, examine yourself always to see if you are in order or out of order [with God]. And don't give in to compromise.

Ponder Point: Getting out of order puts us in a position for God to resist us.

Action Point: Follow God's order, today, tomorrow and always.

Prayer: Father, bring me into order and divine alignment with You, Your ways and Your Word. Keep me from following the ways of the world. Make my heart sensitive to Your Word even as I seek to please and serve You in Jesus name, Amen.