Restoring What Was Lost
Hello Bride of Christ,
The Psalms guide us into a greater awareness of God's presence. Whether through cries of lament, bursts of praise, or confessions of repentance, each one centers on God: His character, promises, and nearness.
Book Four of Psalms closes highlighting a pivotal event in Israel’s history, the return of the ark of God to Jerusalem. This event symbolized the growing unification of Israel’s Northern and Southern Kingdoms under King David, but also revealed David’s desire to place God at the center of his leadership and life.
A Desire to Restore
“And David said to all the assembly of Israel, “If it seems good to you, and if it is of the Lord our God…let us bring the ark of our God back to us, for we have not inquired at it since the days of Saul.” 1 Chronicles 13: 2-3 NKJV
David, after his final anointing at Hebron, gathered all the leaders to discuss bringing the ark of God into Israel’s possession. During the Battle of Ebenezer under King Saul, the Philistines captured the ark of God, suffered affliction, and abandoned it in Kiriath-Jearim. Why, after twenty years, did David prioritize the return of the ark of God to Jerusalem?
A Need to Address
“And David arose and went with all the people who were with him from Baale Judah to bring up from there the ark of God, whose name is called by the Name, the Lord of Hosts, who dwells between the cherubim.” 2 Samuel 6:2 NKJV
The ark symbolized God’s presence and contained the law, Aaron’s rod, and manna—signs of His covenant, priesthood, and provision (see Exodus 25:16; Numbers 17:1–11; Exodus 16:32–34, NKJV). David knew returning the ark of God meant restoring worship, divine favor, and Israel’s national identity, thereby re-centering God’s presence in their individual lives.
A Plan to Prepare a Place
“David built houses for himself in the City of David; and he prepared a place for the ark of God, and pitched a tent for it.” 1 Chronicles 15:1 NKJV
After the failed attempt to bring the ark to Jerusalem—where Uzza died—David realized God’s order (1 Chronicles 13:5-6, 8-10, NKJV). During the ark’s three-month stay at Obed-Edom’s house, David sought the Lord’s instruction (1 Chronicles 13:11-13; 2 Samuel 5; 2 Samuel 6:11-12; NKJV).
A Path to Restoration
Recognize: “Seek the Lord and His strength; Seek His face evermore! Psalm 105:4 NKJV
David called God’s chosen priesthood to sanctify themselves to carry the ark recognizing, “For because you did not do it the first time, the Lord our God broke out against us, because we did not consult Him about the proper order.” (1 Chronicles 15:12-13, NKJV)
Repentance: “That they might observe His statues and keep His laws.” Psalm 105:45 NKJV
All aligned their methods with the Lord’s desires. “So the priests and Levites sanctified themselves to bring the ark of the LORD God of Israel.” (1 Chronicles 15:14, NKJV)
Rebuild: “Remember His marvelous works which He has done, His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth, O seed of Abraham, His servant, You children of Jacob, His chosen ones!” Psalm 105:5-6 NKJV
David revised the plan, appointing Levites as singers and carriers in obedience to God’s original commands to Moses (1 Chronicles 15:16-24; NKJV). “And so it was, when God helped the Levites who bore the ark of the covenant of the Lord, they offered seven bulls and seven rams” (1 Chronicles 15:26; NKJV).
Rejoice: “He brought out His people with joy, His chosen ones with gladness.” Psalm 105:43 NKJV
“Thus all Israel brought up the ark…with shouting and with the sound of the horn, with trumpets and with cymbals, making music with string instruments and harps.” (1 Chronicles 15:28, NKJV). Asaph led the congregation in thanks based on David’s Psalms (Psalm 96, 105, 106; 1 Chronicles 16:7; NKJV).
A Response
Bride of Christ, David’s ark of God experience reveals a process of spiritual maturity —Recognize, Repent, Rebuild, Rejoice. His acts of obedience offer us a timeless model for returning to God’s ways to experience both His presence and blessing. Will you follow the same path and make room for God's presence at the center of your life?
September Journal Prompts
These journal prompts follow the four-step process outlined in the blog—Recognize, Repent, Rebuild, Rejoice. These are not just questions; they're invitations to make room for God's presence at the center of your life, just as David did. Take your time. Let the Spirit guide your thoughts. Restoration is not rushed—it’s sacred.
RECOGNIZE – Where have I lost sight of God's presence?
In what areas of my life have I stopped “inquiring of the Lord” like Israel did under Saul’s reign?
What reminders of God’s presence (like the ark) have I neglected or pushed aside?
What does it mean to me to seek God's face and strength continually (Psalm 105:4)?
REPENT – Where is God calling me to return to Him?
Is there an area in my life where I’ve moved forward without first consulting the Lord?
What spiritual “shortcuts” have I taken that need correcting?
How can I align my desires with God’s desires?
REBUILD – What needs to be restored in my relationship with God?
What parts of my spiritual foundation feel broken or neglected?
Am I preparing a “place” for God’s presence in my daily life—mentally, emotionally, and physically?
How can I honor God's order and instructions in my life as David did with the Levites?
REJOICE – How is God inviting me to worship again?
What victories has God brought me through that I need to celebrate?
How can I offer thanksgiving today, even in a difficult circumstance?
In what ways can I express worship—through music, writing, service, or quiet reflection?
