2 Samuel 6:14
“Wearing a linen ephod, David was dancing before the Lord with all his might.”
Gotta love David. He was such a passionate guy. He did what he felt. He is king, so one would imagine he would be austere and sophisticated. That's not the kind of person he was. He was from a good family, but it doesn't appear he came from riches. He had to work from a young age.
David was a genuine person. He was what you saw. He didn't put on airs. The common person related to him. When David was on the run, those that followed were those that were discontented and in debt. Those that didn't have it together. They weren't the winners. David accepted them and they would give their lives for him.
He was a great example to others of one who loved God. No inhibitions. He did what he felt. Even from a young age we see him as one who stood with God. When he was dropping off lunch to his brothers, he heard the taunts from Goliath and responded with accepting the giants offer. He knew it was wrong to blaspheme God. He also experienced danger in multiple situations and was delivered by God's assistance. This time the ark was being transported to their town. It was a cause for rejoicing. He didn't mildly nod his head, but danced with all his might.
David was a warrior. His behavior seems quite different from that. He was a tough guy, but was secure enough to dance before the people. He wasn't afraid his warrior buddies would mock him. He did what he felt.
Months earlier, the ark was inappropriately moved on a cart. Uzzah sought to steady it when going over bumps. He was struck dead. This scared David. He loved and trusted God, but this rocked his faith. Now they are moving it according to the way instructed. It's like his faith is being restored. He is so joyful to normalize things with God. David's great love, God, is once again showing favor on David, so he dances.
Are we able to demonstrate our love for God? We don't have to dance, that was more culturally appropriate back then. Can we give to God? Can we raise our hands in worship? Can we share the message of God to others?
We are to let Jesus be lord of our lives. I can think of many things that would frighten me. I don't think God works that way. It's best not to let our minds wonder. I think the devil tries to put a wedge between us and God my scaring us. It's best to have an open mind and have the attitude that God will equip us to do the tasks He asks (Hebrews 13:21).
David loved God. He was described as a man after God's heart (I Samuel 13:14). His favor is what mattered. He did stumble and fall at times in his life. He and God reconciled and the relationship was restored. May this be said of us.
Lord, thank You for David. A real man who loved You and wasn't afraid to show it. Help us to be the same way.