The Joy of God’s Presence

Samuel 6; 1 Chronicles 13; Psalms 68; Matthew 17 

“Then David was angry because the Lord’s wrath had broken out against Uzzah…David was afraid of the Lord that day…So David went to bring up the ark of God from the house of Obed-Edom to the City of David with rejoicing.”

2 Samuel 6:8, 9, 12

David’s emotional journey, from anger and fear toward God and then followed by rejoicing, has been experienced by many who choose to pursue the presence of the Lord. God is holy. His exposure of our sin and rebellion is costly, but worth it. When our sinfulness is exposed, we have a choice: remain stuck in anger and fear, or submit to God’s ways. David offered sacrifices of thanksgiving and praise to God. We have been additionally blessed with the atoning blood sacrifice of Jesus Christ for our sin. We no longer need to live in sin. Jesus offers us freedom, forgiveness, and peace with God.

Are we living in the joy of God’s presence, or are we still stuck in rebellion and sin?

“Lord Jesus, this day I thank you for your mercy, forgiveness, and joy, for your glory.”