Dear Ones:
In one of those narratives that is sometimes not understood, we find that David is seeking to bring the Ark of God into Jerusalem on a “new cart.” It seemed a good idea, and a logical one. But David had forgotten about four rings on that Ark. The result of his “good idea” was that Uzzah reached out to steady the Ark, as the cart seemed unsteady. “…God smote (struck) him there for his error; and there he died by the Ark of God.” (2 Sam.6:7) What happened? Why was God so severe with Uzzah, or was He severe at all?
When we go back to the book of Exodus, we find that Bezaleel was instructed on how to fabricate the Ark. And one of the details was that he was to make “four rings of gold” through which four staves of wood, covered with gold, would be placed, in order for the priests to carry the ark without touching it. The important point to grasp here is that this Ark is the Ark of God, of God’s creation, and representing the work, and commitment of God…perfect and holy. There was not one fingerprint of the work of man on this covenant work. It is for this reason that the Ark (the physical representation of the covenant) was to be carried, and thus honored, as unique, and no flesh could glory in it or because of it. When Uzzah put his hand out to steady that Ark, he did something that all through Scripture is forbidden, to touch or claim the glory of God.
When the Israelites were to conquer Jericho, they were instructed to do so in a very precise manner. Seven trumpets were to be blown by the seven priests as they proceeded the Ark being carried around the city. On the seventh day, trumpets sounded, and the people shouted…and the walls of the city fell down. Why did God give such commands to the people through Joshua? Because, as with the Ark and the four rings, it is a question of His glory…and not that of man. This is His way…He will receive all the glory.
When we get to the New Testament we find that Paul writes, “But of Him are ye IN Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: That, according as it is written: He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.” The work of Christ is that of God…with not one fingerprint of sinful man upon it. And this we must honor by giving Him all the glory.
How true are the words: “Every virtue I possess, and every victory won…and every thought of holiness, are His and His alone.” These are wonderful words of truth. And what great solace and comfort, that nothing can alter that work that work of Christ on the Cross, and His work by the Spirit, today. It is complete, certain, and unchanging. The application is clear: “God’s work done in God’s way, will never lack God’s supply.” (Hudson Taylor). And we will add….ALL to His glory.
Love, Dad