I Chronicles 13-14

“And David was afraid of God that day, and he said, "How can I bring the ark of God home to me?" (13:12).  Pagan religions had sacred objects like Israel’s ark, as well as similar rituals, holy places, and priests.  But Israel’s God was unique.   During the procession to take the ark to Jerusalem, Uzziah’s shocking death reminded everyone that they served the true Creator of the universe.  David himself realized that he could not use the ark as a tool of personal power.

“For God has gone out before you …” (14:15).  God cannot be manipulated, and He does not belong to any nation.  But we belong to Him, and He is for us (Romans 8).