“How can I bring the ark of God home to me?” (13:12).  As David rose to Israel’s throne, he wanted to bring the ark of the covenant “home” to Jerusalem, “for we did not seek it in the days of Saul” (13:3). As a symbol of God’s power, however, the ark could not be used to strengthen David’s leadership.  Uzzah died when he inappropriately seized the ark, demonstrating the awesome holiness of the God who did not belong to any leader or nation.

“And David was afraid of God that day …” (13:12). Holy “fear” of God means we realize we don’t own Him and can’t manipulate Him. We love Him because He reaches out to us in grace.