Natural Conclusions

Unless the Lord builds the house,
    the builders labor in vain. Psalm 127:1

When you’re a child, the thought of fairy tales makes sense, as they are designed to teach the value of ‘wonder’. As that child grows and develops a sense of reason, that term “wonder” now becomes more of probing than that of entertainment – it deepens into reflection and reason.  To children, fairy tales teach the value of wonder. But as we mature, our sense of wonder become lessons of principle and wisdom.

The dazzling displays of Christmas enchant us, but spiritual life requires more than remaining in a state of wonder; it calls for practical faith. To be spiritual (practical) is to act in accord with God’s ways, not just feel His presence.

The same is true of Bible stories—what begin as lessons of awe must, in adulthood, produce lessons of principle and wisdom. These strategies should not impede us as adults, from our needing to learn principle and wisdom in applying specific stories to our life.

In 1 Chronicles 13, David sought to return the Ark (the place of testimony) to Jerusalem. As David contemplated the Ark of the Testimony in Philistine territory, he had seen that they had used a cart to move the ark around. So when it came time for him to retrieve it, the manner in which the world system had used in order to move it, was not according to God (for it was to be borne by Levites) and therefore one was struck dead because of this breaking of the Divine principle.

Principle Lesson: don’t take your cue from culture!

We often make the same mistake—borrowing cultural ways to achieve spiritual or practical goals. David’s desire to “bring again” the Ark mirrors our desire to restore what’s been misplaced: communication in our families, purpose in our work, or focus in ministry. Yet true restoration comes not through strategy or strength but through repentance and the Spirit’s leading.

Wherever God has placed us—home, business, or community—we are carriers of His presence. How we move matters. Even good intentions (Num. 4:15) can falter if they are not Spirit-led. Many things are done for God, but not by the Spirit of God.

David’s story is our story. These accounts were written for our instruction, reminding us to follow God’s Word, not cultural shortcuts. As followers of Christ, we walk “a different way,” guided by divine principles rather than new carts of convenience.

As Christ followers, our markers and decisions run counter to the way in which the world goes forth. While similar achievements do exist, the principles are far removed from each other. It’s never a matter of whether we use a “new” cart to retrieve (fill in the blank) and bring that back again. It is a matter of whether the Holy Spirit has His Divine end by Divine means?

The presence of natural handicap, natural weakness, and natural conclusions are where our testimony gets locked up in enemy camp, as it was with the Philistines. We, having to retrieve, can not get done by the methods the culture uses to gain or get back (fill in the blank) – but through the manner the Lord calls for according to the Word of God.

Let this encourage you: God desires His presence to dwell within you daily so your life, work, and worship all reflect His testimony. As He enlarges your territory, campaign, sales numbers, or family size, He also calls you to return again and again, to the Cross—the place (of testimony) where right order begins.