Scripture: 1 Samuel 5-7
HIGHLIGHT
20 Then the men of Beth-shemesh said, “Who is able to stand before the Lord, this holy God? And to whom shall he go up away from us?”
EXPLAIN
The Israelites and sons of Eli profaned God’s name by using the Ark of the Covenant for favor in battle. God allowed the Ark to be captured by the Philistines. But then, God glorified his name by first causing the pagan idol to fall down before the Ark and then causing plagues to break out among the people. When the Philistines sent the Ark back to Israel, a number of the Israelites also treated the Ark profanely, and God brought quick judgment upon them.
APPLY
We must be careful to honor God and treat him with utmost respect.
RESPOND
Heavenly Father, help me always to reverence you and to lead others by my example to love and fear you. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.