The Folly of Using God

In 1Samuel 4:1-11 the Ark of the Covenant (which is the Israelites' reminder of God's presence, His holiness, and His mercy) is captured by the Philistines. The Israelites' false confidence is evidenced by their neglect of the Word of God, their belittling of God, and their ignoring sin. The Philistines have a worldly confidence based on a limited understanding of God, an emotional response, and an apparent victory. In contrast to the Israelites and the Philistines, WE should have a Godly confidence-- walking in the Word, in holiness, and by faith.