the only place where the right way of carrying the ark had been stipulated. Exodus 25:12–15 and Numbers 7:9 couldn’t be clearer. It had been ignored earlier but was now carefully observed. David had learned a vital lesson. It is not enough simply to seek the Lord. He must be sought ‘according to the rule’ (15:13). Only then can you expect, and rejoice in, his help (15:26). This whole episode shouts out to us, ‘Note then the kindness and the severity of God’ (Rom. 11:22). I wonder whether any readers