“So David went and brought up the ark of God from the house of Obed Edom to the City of David with gladness. And so it was, when those bearing the ark of the Lord had gone six paces, that he sacrificed oxen and fatted sheep. Then David danced before the Lord with all his might; and David was wearing a linen ephod. So David and all the house of Israel brought up the ark of the Lord with shouting and with the sound of the trumpet. Now as the ask of the Lord came into the City of David, Michal, Saul’s daughter, looked through a window and saw King David leaping and whirling before the Lord; and she despised him in her heart.” — 2 Samuel 6:12-16 (NKJV)

David has just been given a second chance to bring up the ark of God to the City of David. His first attempt resulted in the death of Uzziah at Nachon’s threshing floor, and caused him to become angry with, and afraid of the Lord. For three months, the ark has been in Obed Edom’s house, where the blessings of God have been showered over it’s presence. Upon hearing of this favor to Obed Edom, King David gladly moves the ark into his city. This time, David decides to do it right, the ark is carried in the appropriate manner, as specified by God, not on a cart, but borne by men using the poles designed for its transport.

All, it seems, is well; until Michal, David’s wife and Saul’s daughter, despises David as he dances before God with abandon. Her rebuke of David’s is much more serious than a simple dislike for his dancing. Michal is disgusted with David even though his dancing is in worship and praise directed toward God. In effect, she is disgusted with David’s worship; judging it to be inappropriate and shameful.

Michal might have gained insight into the error of her ways had she been able to read Romans 14:4. She and all others who judge the validity and integrity of another persons worship, should understand that worship is not for our benefit, neither is it subject to our approval; worship is directed toward God, and is approved of or denied by Him alone. We need to be very careful how we respond to, or criticize another person’s worship. Michal remained barren until the day of her death. 6:23

Rev. Bobby Thornhill is a retired pastor.