Discerning God's Ways
DeVern reflects on the historical figures of Moses, Joshua, and David, highlighting their roles in God's plan. DeVern discusses the significance of the Ark of the Covenant, representing God's presence and glory among His people. He notes that David, upon becoming king, recognized the need to bring the Ark back to Israel, which had been neglected during Saul's reign. However, David's initial approach was flawed; he sought the approval of the people rather than inquiring of God. DeVern stresses the importance of discerning God's ways and understanding the difference between seeing a need and receiving God's burden. He illustrates this through David's mistakes in transporting the Ark, leading to Uzzah's death due to improper handling. Ultimately, DeVern emphasizes that true guidance comes from God, not from human consensus, and that God's ways are fulfilled through Jesus Christ, the ultimate expression of God's purpose. He concludes with a prayer for the community to be sensitive to God's leading and to embody His presence.
Gratitude for fellowship and God's purpose
Historical figures: Moses, Joshua, David
Significance of the Ark of the Covenant
David's recognition of the Ark's importance
Flawed approach: seeking people's approval
Importance of discerning God's ways
David's mistakes in transporting the Ark
True guidance comes from God
Fulfillment of God's purpose through Jesus Christ
Prayer for sensitivity to God's leading
1 And David consulted with the captains of thousands and hundreds, and with every leader. 2 And David said unto all the congregation of Israel, If it seem good unto you, and that it be of the LORD our God, let us send abroad unto our brethren every where, that are left in all the land of Israel, and with them also to the priests and Levites which are in their cities and suburbs, that they may gather themselves unto us: 3 And let us bring again the ark of our God to us: for we enquired not at it in the days of Saul. 4 And all the congregation said that they would do so: for the thing was right in the eyes of all the people.
9 And when they came unto the threshingfloor of Chidon, Uzza put forth his hand to hold the ark; for the oxen stumbled. 10 And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Uzza, and he smote him, because he put his hand to the ark: and there he died before God. 11 And David was displeased, because the LORD had made a breach upon Uzza: wherefore that place is called Perezuzza to this day. 12 And David was afraid of God that day, saying, How shall I bring the ark of God home to me? 13 So David brought not the ark home to himself to the city of David, but carried it aside into the house of Obededom the Gittite. 14 And the ark of God remained with the family of Obededom in his house three months. And the LORD blessed the house of Obededom, and all that he had.
2 Then David said, None ought to carry the ark of God but the Levites: for them hath the LORD chosen to carry the ark of God, and to minister unto him for ever.
12 And said unto them, Ye are the chief of the fathers of the Levites: sanctify yourselves, both ye and your brethren, that ye may bring up the ark of the LORD God of Israel unto the place that I have prepared for it. 13 For because ye did it not at the first, the LORD our God made a breach upon us, for that we sought him not after the due order.
2 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
