1 Chron. 13. [The Message]

As David and all Israel began returning the ark to Jerusalem, the oxen stumbled and the ark was in danger of sliding off the cart. Uzza reached out to stabilize the ark but was immediately smitten dead by God because he was not of the proper tribe to handle the ark. This may seem to be trivial and misunderstood, but it shows that people can try to serve the Lord on their terms rather than on his.

Our guide book for Christian conduct that pleases God is His Word. When one follows the teachings of Jesus and Paul and other New testament authors who were inspired by God, one serves God with the due reverence.

The most effective way to teach reverence to your family is to model it yourself. When children see their parents faithful in church attendance, openly and sincerely praying, openly reading the Bible, and performing works of Christian service, they learn reverence. Our goal is for them to give their hearts to Christ and then raise their children with the same values and reverence. This is God’s plan.