Definition: And David was afraid of God that day, saying, How shall I bring the ark of God [home] to me?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 13:12. It’s a really important and fascinating passage about David's faith and his understanding of God’s power. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: David was profoundly scared by the possibility of bringing the Ark of Covenant – a sacred box containing precious items like the tablets of Moses – back to Jerusalem. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “David was afraid of God” : This is the key point. David wasn't just feeling a little nervous; he was genuinely terrified. It shows that he recognized the immense significance and responsibility involved. “saying, How shall I bring the ark of God [home] to me?” This is where it gets interesting. "The ark of God" was a symbol of God's presence and protection. David wasn’t asking how to move it – he was questioning whether he could. He was wrestling with the enormity of the task. What does this tell us about David? He had faith: It speaks volumes that he was afraid, not out of doubt about his own abilities, but because he recognized the holiness and power of God. He understood his role: He knew that bringing the ark back to Jerusalem was a huge undertaking – it was a sacred mission. He acknowledged limitations: His question shows humility. He wasn’t demanding something impossible; he was recognizing the limits of human ability. Why is this a significant verse? This passage is often interpreted as an early example of David's understanding that God is in control and that humans can only do their part, not determine the ultimate outcome. It shows his willingness to submit to God’s will even when it seemed daunting. In short: This verse highlights David's deep reverence for God and his recognition that he was tasked with a monumental responsibility – bringing something incredibly important back home. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of David’s life?