A Study of David- Laid Bare Before God

We are running out of time in our study of David.  This series will wrap up at the end of May and we will be taking the summer off.  Today we skip ahead in our story to 2 Samuel chapter 6.  David has been running from Saul and fighting the Philistines.  Saul continues to defy God and rack up the consequences.  Both Saul and Johnathan are killed in battle and David works his way to the throne.  One of the first acts as king is to return the ark (which had been captured) to Jerusalem.  At the height of this military and religious triumph we find David entering his capital city dancing and frolicking jubilantly before the ark.  This outpouring of worship is so fervent that David strips down to his skivvies. 

Before we asked the question, "who are you when no one is looking?"  Now I ask, "who are you when everyone is looking?"  David is belittled by his wife who cannot believe that a king would act in such an undistinguished manner.  David defends his behavior because he was worshipping God.  David is not ashamed of his outward expression of worship.  Do we hold back in our worship?  Perhaps our own pride keeps us from fully experiencing joy filled worship.  Maybe our fear of other people's opinions keeps us from expressing ourselves in worship.  Whatever the case, we should follow the example of David and worship unashamedly.  Neither David's pride, nor the opinion of others could prevent David from praising God. 

One of the things that makes David a man after God's own heart is his willingness to lay his life bare before God (very literally in this story).  We can't hide anything from God, but it benefits us to choose to reveal ourselves to God.  Confessing our sins, expressing our emotions, sharing our thoughts with God is healthy for us. 

In conclusion, too many people blame their church for not creating the right worship experience.  They feel hindered by the lack of enthusiasm shown by their congregation.  There may even be an unspoken rule about clapping, lifting hands, or being expressive.  However, are we out to please God or men?  Shame on us if the opinions of people or the traditions of our denomination keep use from fully worshipping God.