MARCH 7, 2024 – ARK

READ: 1 Sam. 4:1-9: … the elders of Israel said, Why has the Lord defeated us …? Let us bring the ark of the covenant of the Lord from Shiloh to us, … it may save us from the hand of our enemies … And when the ark of the covenant of the Lord came into the camp, all Israel shouted so loudly that the earth shook …

In the time of Eli, there is deep decay. There is still a form of religion, but a closer look reveals that corruption has penetrated into God’s sanctuary. Frivolous and drunken women can be found there, while the people despise the offerings due to the selfish behavior of the priests. But does the recognition of young Samuel as a prophet of God make it better? Unfortunately not.

There is strife between Israel and the Philistines. The Philistines, against God’s will, were not exterminated after the entry into Canaan. When there is a decline in serving the LORD, He uses the Philistines to discipline His people, as is the case now. Israel wants to defeat the Philistines, but they do not consult the LORD. How can they expect success then?

It is not a holy war in which the LORD fights for His people. The priests do not go into battle, and there are no silver trumpets sounding to remind the people of the LORD (Num. 10:9). Is He not their God and King?

Israel relies on its own strength, but it turns out to be deceived. The LORD ensures a great defeat (vs.2). The people may wonder why the LORD allowed this, which seems good at first glance. But is there genuine humility? No, there is no call for repentance.

Instead, they come up with a new strategy: they decide to take the ark of the covenant with them! After all, it is their Almighty God! But even now, they do not consult the LORD. They misuse Him as a mascot and offend Him with sin against the second commandment. It is self-willed worship that is an abomination to the LORD.

Is God always near His children? 

Singing: Ps. 78:23,24