1 Chronicles 13–16

Common Theme:
God’s presence is central to the life and worship of His people, and approaching Him requires both reverence and obedience. These chapters show Israel’s renewed commitment to God’s ways, especially in restoring the ark and instituting proper worship.

Reflection Questions:

• What does this passage teach me about the importance of honoring God’s holiness in worship?
• How am I tempted to approach God on my own terms rather than according to His revealed will?

God Shot:
God is holy and not to be approached casually—when David first tried to move the ark without following God’s instructions, judgment followed; but when he returned with reverence and obedience, joy and blessing came. God desires to dwell with His people, but He insists on being worshiped in truth and according to His ways.

Common Theme (Psalm 106–107)

God’s mercy remains constant despite Israel’s repeated rebellion; He responds to their cries with deliverance. His steadfast love endures even when His people forget His works and break covenant.

Questions to Consider

• What does it reveal about God that He repeatedly rescues people who continually rebel?
• How should I respond to the pattern of God’s mercy and my forgetfulness?

God Shot

God is a covenant-keeping Redeemer who abounds in steadfast love, even when His people betray Him. He hears their cries in distress, remembers His promises, and acts not because of their worthiness but because of His mercy and faithfulness to His name.

Psalm 133

Common Theme

Psalm 133 celebrates the beauty and blessing of unity among God’s people. Harmony among brothers is portrayed not just as good, but sacred—bringing God’s favor and refreshment like anointing oil or morning dew.

Questions to Consider

• Why does God so highly value unity among His people?
• What specific actions promote or disrupt the kind of unity described here?

God Shot

God is the source and sustainer of true unity, and He delights in seeing His people dwell together in peace. He commands His blessing where unity reigns—because it reflects His own nature and the harmony of His purposes.