Presence that Kills and Blesses

1 Chronicles 13:14 The Ark of God remained there in Obed-edom’s house for three months, and the LORD blessed the household of Obed-edom and everything he owned. While the Ark of God was kept at Obed-edom's house, he experienced the blessings of God. The Ark was where the presence of God was, and for Obed-edom, it meant blessings. Earlier, the Ark meant death for Uzzah, who broke God's command and touched it. Why was God's presence death for one, and blessing for another? It was a matter of obedience. Under the Old Covenant, obedience brought blessings and disobedience brought curses. God's presence, without God's favor, means death. Even now, under God's New Covenant, His presence still kills and blesses. Because of Christ's sacrifice on the cross, we can come boldly to Him and receive favor, but our flesh or sinful desires meet their demise. It is still a matter of obedience, but our ability to seek His presence and receive blessings is based upon the obedience of Jesus Christ on our behalf. I challenge you to seek His presence today where you will find death for your old man, and life and favor for the new you!