1 Chronicles 13:3-4
Let us bring the ark of our God back to us, for we did not inquire of it during the reign of Saul." The whole assembly agreed to do this, because it seemed right to all the people. (1 Chronicles 13:3-4 NIV)
Saul had been a humble young man who was afraid to step into a place of power. Once there, and hearing the praise of the people, he grew prideful. He soon began to do things his own way instead of God¡¯s way. This verse tells us that the ark of God was neglected during his reign. The ark symbolizes so much for us today. It was the presence of God among them. The covering mercy seat was the place the High Priest was to sprinkle blood once a year on the Day of Atonement. Saul neglected it because he wanted the focus on himself. Though he gave lip service to God, he preferred doing things his way. It reminds us of ourselves when we come up with great plans for God and then ask Him to bless our ways. God tells us our ways are not His.
David had a very different heart. His heart was after God, not self-glory. He had observed Saul and his worldly ways and seen the outcome, and he had lived in humble obedience to God and seen the blessing. He knew that if the nation and his reign were to be blessed they had to keep their eyes on God.
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When the leadership is after God, the people will usually see the need to do godly things. David wanted God in the center of all they did. They people saw the need and agreed.
Are you focussing on His presence in your life and living with Him in the center of all you do? Do you see the need to inquire of God for direction or are you self-reliant? May the LORD help us to have a heart like David, seeking God and living with Him as our source!
