The Philistines were in a panic after seeing what had happened to the people of Ashdod and Ekron. They listened to the priests and diviners’ advice and decided to send the ark back to Israel.

They decided to send back the ark on a new cart with two cows that had not been yoked, along with golden objects as guilt offerings. They did not know the law of God yet feared him enough from the plague they experienced and from history. (3,6) They tried their best, with their knowledge, to pay their respect to him. God responded to them by confirming that it was he who sent the plagues as he led the cows straight into Israel's territory on their watch (16). God’s power and divine nature were clearly seen to the Philistines (Ro 1:20)

When the cart reached Beth Shemesh, an Israelite town, the people were overjoyed at the sight. They celebrated the return of the ark with sacrifices and a burnt offering (15). However, seventy men were put to death in that town because they looked into the ark. The ark represented the presence of God, and sinful humans could not come before it. The Israelites sinned as they took the ark to the battlefield without God’s direction. Now, they had to learn the holy fear once again (20).
Application: Father, you are holy. It is only by your grace that I come to your presence. Thank you for this privilege to come and pray before you today.
One Word: Fear and honor God.