DAGON FALLEN

Today's Reading: 1 Samuel 5-6

Key Verse: 1 Samuel 6:20

And the men of Beth Shemesh said, "Who is able to stand before this holy Lord God? And to whom shall it go up from us?"

In today's reading we learn of the different ways of handling the Ark of the Covenant. First, the Philistines of Ashdod offended God. They may have thought they were honouring the God of Israel by placing the Ark in the Temple of Dagon, but instead they abused Him. They failed to understand that God does not share worship with an idol. 

Secondly, the Israelites of Beth Shemesh, who knew better, treated the Ark as an article of curiosity, failing to respect the symbol of God's Presence as Moses had instructed them. Their cavalier attitude toward God's holy presence cost them dearly.

Since Jesus came and opened the way to approach God directly and personally, we have the assurance that we can stand before Him and worship Him without fear. Jesus changed everything! However, the excruciating suffering and death of Christ is ample proof that our holy God is outraged by sin in all its forms. We throw ourselves upon His grace and mercy and thank Jesus for taking our penalty for sin upon Himself.

PRAYER FOR TODAY:

Lord God, we come boldly to Your throne of grace. According to Your Word in Hebrews 4:16, we receive mercy and find grace in our time of need. Please help us to always approach You with all reverence and total respect, knowing that Jesus has paid the price of admission for us. In His Name we pray. Amen!

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