When David attempted to bring the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem, things didn’t go as planned. In 2 Samuel 6, the celebration turned to tragedy when Uzzah reached out to steady the Ark and was struck down. Shocked and afraid, David halted the procession and placed the Ark in the home of a man named Obed-edom the Gittite.
And that’s when everything changed.
Scripture tells us, “The Ark of the Lord remained in the house of Obed-edom the Gittite for three months, and the Lord blessed him and his entire household” (2 Samuel 6:11). While the text doesn’t describe the details, the blessing was so profound and evident that word reached David—and it gave him the courage to continue the journey with reverence and joy.
What’s remarkable is that Obed-edom didn’t just host the Ark temporarily; he oriented his life around God’s presence from that point forward. In 1 Chronicles, we see him serving as a gatekeeper, musician, and worship leader in the temple. His eight sons and their descendants were described as capable, strong men who also served faithfully. One act of obedience—welcoming the presence of God into his home—shaped a multi-generational legacy of faithfulness.
When we make room for God’s presence, we invite His blessing—not just for a moment, but for generations.
Obed-edom’s story reminds us that we don’t need to be center stage to be used by God. We just need to be available. His quiet yes became the doorway for God’s favor, not only on his house, but through his house.
In a world filled with distraction, performance, and striving, the invitation still stands:
Make room. Create space. Let Him dwell.
As you reflect this week, ask yourself:
- Is there room in my home, my heart, and my schedule for God’s presence?
- Am I prioritizing proximity to God over performance for God?
- What might a simple yes lead to—for me and for those who come after me?
That’s your mid-week memo.
—Steve.
