What can we learn from this Chapter, 2 Samuel 6, that has so much in it? David wants to bring the ark of God to Jerusalem. He brings 30,000 able young men of Israel v. 1. They put the ark on a new cart. In the comments below it said David had followed the Philistine example when they returned the ark to Israel years ago. Only the priests were allowed to move the ark with poles designed to move it. When the oxen pulling the cart stumbled, Uzzah reached out and took hold of the ark of God, v. 6. Uzzah died because of his irreverent act. Where they had been celebrating the return of the ark, now David was afraid and had the ark stay with Obed-Edom.

Three months later, with sacrifices and rejoicing, they bring the ark of the Lord to the city of David. Michal, David’s first wife, daughter of Saul, sees David dancing and leaping before the Lord and she despised him in her heart, v. 16. The ark is taken to the tent, offerings are given to God, David blesses the people and gives them food to take with them. When David returns home, Michal confronts him for his dancing and David reminds her he was chosen over her family to rule over Israel and he will celebrate before the Lord; he will be held in honor for his rejoicing for the Lord, v. 20-23.

David rejoiced with dancing and leaping, he was also angry and afraid when Uzzah died; an emotional journey. Our words and actions also cause emotional journeys for us and others. David needed to learn to give highest respect for God with regard to the ark and how it was to be moved. Michal needed to learn her bitterness toward David prevented her rejoicing and celebrating with him in the return of the ark to Jerusalem.

I confess I would have been shocked at Uzzah’s death and I probably would have frowned upon my husband dancing and leaping with all his might in front of others. God sees our words and our actions. I also know I can turn to Him when I don’t understand, when I need correcting, when I rejoice with Him and am thankful for Him. I can trust Him to lead me and guide me and help me to walk with Him.

Last night we watched the movie The Martian. I couldn’t help but be grateful to God for the simple and beautiful design of the right amount of gravity on Earth that we enjoy and so easily take for granted. God’s word and His love keep me grounded as well. He designed everything so beautifully. He designed us and knows our hearts and minds. We can bring every problem to Him and He will help us. One day I hope to dance and leap for joy with Him. I hope to sit at his feet and learn from Him unencumbered by my own mistakes that are many. One day!