Chronological Reading Plan for May 6, 2 Sam 6-7, 1 Chron 17

Today's readings are 2 Sam 6-7, 1 Chron 17. Tomorrow's are Psalms 25, 29, 33, 36, 39. 

We see two perspectives on the same events in today's readings. The first one comes from 2 Sam, written during the time the events occurred. The second is found in 1 Chron which looks back form the post-exilic era. 

This can be helpful. The current perspective in 2 Sam shows us what was deemed important at the time. The later perspective shows us the long term implications as seen by those who view it from a historical perspective.  Between the two, we get a fully-orbed look at what happened and what impact it had on those that came after.   

2 Sam 6-7 tell the tale of the moving of the ark. We saw this story in 1 Chron 13. Notice that the 1 Chron version noted David's fear of the Lord. In 2 Sam, we see a bit more detail. David is angry, at first. When his anger turns to reverential fear, God blesses and David moves the ark again, this time with great care and reverence. We also learn that David's wife, Michal pays a price for dishonoring God's chosen king of Israel.

In 1 Sam 7, God makes incredible promises to David because God knows David's heart. David responds to those promises not with questions, as some would, but with praise and thanks. David is humble and contrite. 

In 1 Chron 17, we see some additional detail. David's son, not he, will build the house for God. In this we see that God's promises are good and true, but happen in His timing and by his plan, not according to anyone's expectations. David pays a price for his sin but God continues to bless those who come after him.