“And David said unto Michal, It was before the LORD, which chose me before thy father, and before all his house, to appoint me ruler over the people of the LORD, over Israel: therefore will I play before the LORD.”
This verse occurs within the account of David bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. The Ark represented the presence of God among His people, and David, as the newly anointed king, desired to bring it to the capital city. As they were transporting the Ark, David and the people were rejoicing and celebrating with music, dancing, and various instruments.
Reverence for God’s choice:David’s response to Michal’s criticism reflects his understanding of God’s divine selection. He recognizes that it was the Lord who chose him to be king over Israel, surpassing even Michal’s father, King Saul. This verse highlights David’s humble acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty and His role in establishing leadership.
Playing before the Lord:David’s intention to “play before the LORD” signifies his joyful and uninhibited worship. It is important to note that the term “play” does not imply a trivial or flippant attitude but rather refers to expressive and exuberant praise. David was willing to set aside his regal dignity and openly display his devotion to God.
Public display of worship:Michal, David’s wife, criticizes his behavior, viewing it as undignified for a king. However, David’s response reveals his unwavering commitment to worship God openly and wholeheartedly. His priority was to honor God rather than cater to societal expectations or personal pride.
God-centered worship:The verse underscores the central focus of worship, which is the Lord Himself. David’s actions were not driven by self-glorification or personal ambition; rather, they stemmed from a genuine desire to honor and magnify God’s name. David understood that true worship was directed toward God alone.
Lessons we can learn from 2 Samuel 6:21:
Humility and recognizing God’s sovereignty:Like David, we should humbly acknowledge that any position or responsibility we have is a result of God’s choosing. Recognizing His sovereignty helps us maintain a humble attitude and give credit where it is due.
Authentic worship:Our worship should be marked by sincerity, joy, and exuberance. Just as David played before the Lord with all his might, we should engage in worship that is expressive, heartfelt, and focused on God’s glory.
Prioritizing God’s approval over man’s:David’s response to Michal’s criticism reminds us that seeking God’s approval should be our primary concern, even if it means going against societal expectations or facing opposition. Our aim should be to please God rather than seeking the praise or acceptance of others.
Maintaining a God-centered focus:In our worship and in our lives, it is crucial to keep God at the center. True worship is not about our personal preferences, but about exalting and honoring God. Keeping our focus on Him helps us align our actions and attitudes with His will.
By studying and reflecting on 2 Samuel 6:21, we can gain insights into the nature of worship, humility, and the importance of prioritizing God in our lives.
