In 1 Chronicles 15 David arranges for a place for the ark and for the Levites only to carry it and prepares for a second attempt at bringing the ark to Jerusalem. David makes certain that all involved sanctify themselves before the endeavor. Because God helps the Levites carry the ark and no one dies they sacrifice 7 bulls and 7 rams. In this account David is clothed in a robe of fine linen and an ephod. All of Israel brought the ark into Jerusalem with shouting, loud music and dancing. Michal, Saul’s daughter and David’s wife sees David leaping and dancing and despises him in her heart.

1 Chronicles 16 recounts the time of worship when the ark is set in the tent. Burnt offerings and offerings of well-being are made. Then David gives every person there a loaf of bread, a portion of meat and a cake of raisins. David appointed musicians to sing praises to God and to blow the trumpet continually before the ark. The first song recounts God’s covenant with Abraham and how God delivered his people. It tells of the greatness of our Lord.  Then all the people said “Amen!” and praised the Lord.

In 2 Corinthians 13 Paul reminds the Corinthians that this is the third time he is coming to them. He promises to be stern with the punishments of those who have been disobedient. He tells them to examine their faith and see if they are living in it. Because they have Christ in them they should be able to resist the temptation to sin. He wants to spend his time with them to build them up not to be severe with them as they continue in sin. Paul closes his letter appealing them to put things in order, agree with one another, and live in peace. The last sentence has become a commonly used benediction in worship.

We all need to remember that Christ is in us giving us the ability to resist sin. We are no longer slaves to doing what is wrong but now can choose what is right in God’s sight.