“And the LORD blessed Obed-edom and all his household.”

2 Samuel 6:11

David gathered all the chosen men of Israel to carry the ark of the covenant from Abinadab’s house, which was on the hill. The ark of the covenant represents the dwelling place of the Lord. This was not just a wooden chest covered in gold, but the very symbol of God’s holy presence among His people.

They placed the ark on a new cart, driven by Uzzah and led by Ahio, the sons of Abinadab. The ark was transported with joyful noise and celebration.

But while they were on the way, the oxen stumbled. Uzzah reached out his hand to steady the ark of the covenant, and the anger of the Lord burned against him. God struck him down instantly because of his irreverence.

The death of Uzzah may seem unfair, but God had given Moses clear instructions on how the ark should be handled — with reverence and holy fear. The ark was to be carried by the priests on their shoulders using poles fitted into its rings. No one else was permitted to touch it.

David became afraid and decided not to take the ark to the city of David. Instead, it was redirected to the house of Obed-edom. The ark remained there for three months, and the house of Obed-edom was blessed because of the ark. Later, his descendants even became doorkeepers of the sanctuary, leaving a lasting legacy.

Before it was brought out of Abinadab’s house, the ark had been there for 21 years. Uzzah and Ahio grew up with it and became so familiar that they took the presence of God for granted. Even David disregarded the instructions, which cost Uzzah his life.

Obed received the ark with confidence, even after hearing of Uzzah’s death. For three months he honored the presence of God — offering sacrifices, shedding the blood of lambs, and worshiping the LORD with reverence. Because of this humble worship and obedience, Obed-edom and his household received mercy and were richly blessed in all they had and did.

The Lord questions His people in another place:

“A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If then I am a father, where is my honor? And if I am a master, where is my fear? says the Lord of hosts to you

Malachi 1:6 ESV

Scripture is very clear — there is no compromise in the respect and honor we must give to Yahweh. The presence of the Lord brings fullness of joy, but dishonor brings fear and judgment.

When David saw the blessing upon Obed-edom, he corrected his error. This time he carried the ark as God commanded and brought it into Jerusalem with singing and dancing.

Now re-examine the honor you give to the Creator of heaven and earth. You may have known the Lord for years, even generations, but have you become so familiar that you take His presence for granted — like the house of Abinadab?

When the presence of God is treated lightly, He withdraws, leaving fear, uncertainty, and even loss. Scripture reminds us that only the blood of Jesus makes reconciliation with the Father possible.

The story of Obed is the great revelation that the blood of Jesus is the only mediator between us and God. The Father overlooks our sins and shortcomings only through the blood of His Son.

As you believe and claim the finished work of the cross, you are redeemed from the curse and the aftermath of sin. Receive Jesus Christ with complete confidence — His blood covers it all.

Worship Yeshua, the Lamb of God, in reverence, believing in your heart that He is the ultimate sacrifice for you and for your household. The presence of God is revived in every home that honors the name of Jesus.

Only the blood of Jesus can set right your past. God is giving you an opportunity by redirecting His presence into your house — receive Him with joy, and receive Him with due honor.

Prayer:

Father, we honor Your holy presence and welcome You into our homes and our lives. Help us never to take You for granted but to walk in reverence and awe of Your name. Cover us with the precious blood of Jesus, and may our households be blessed as we worship You in spirit and in truth. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.