Number 31 Topic: Foolish Curiosity By M. S. Stephens Focal Text: 2 Samuel 6:6-7 (NIV) “When they came to the threshing floor of Nakon, Uzzah reached out and took hold of the ark of God, because the oxen stumbled. The Lord’s anger burned against Uzzah because of his irreverent act; therefore God struck him down, and he died there beside the ark of God.” Introduction: Dear brethren, in these challenging times, it is crucial for us to guard our hearts and actions against foolish curiosity that can lead us away from God’s will. Instead, let us focus on helping and supporting one another, rooted in obedience and reverence to God. 1. The Danger of Foolish Curiosity (2 Samuel 6:6-7) - Context: Uzzah’s action of touching the Ark of the Covenant, despite good intentions, was a violation of God’s command. This act of irreverent curiosity led to his immediate death. - Application: Just as Uzzah’s curiosity and disregard for God’s command led to dire consequences, we must be cautious about actions and decisions driven by curiosity rather than faith and obedience. In these trying times, our focus should be on following God’s will and supporting each other in accordance with His commands. 2. Eve’s Curiosity in the Garden (Genesis 3:6) - Text: “When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.” - Application: Eve’s curiosity led her to disobey God’s direct command, bringing sin into the world. Like Eve, we can be tempted to explore what is forbidden, leading to negative consequences. Instead, let us seek God’s wisdom and encourage one another to stay on the path of righteousness. 3. The Curiosity of Lot’s Wife (Genesis 19:26) - Text: “But Lot’s wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt.” - Application: Lot’s wife was curious about the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah and disobeyed the angels’ command not to look back. Her curiosity and disobedience resulted in her becoming a pillar of salt. This serves as a warning against allowing curiosity to lead us away from God’s instructions. In our community, let us encourage each other to move forward in faith, without looking back to past temptations or regrets. 4. Seeking Wisdom over Curiosity (Proverbs 3:5-6) - Text: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” - Application: Instead of giving in to foolish curiosity, we are called to trust in the Lord and seek His wisdom. As a community, we should support each other in making wise decisions that honor God and promote collective well-being. 5. Encouraging Each Other in Righteousness (Hebrews 10:24-25) - Text: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” - Application: During these trying times, our focus should be on encouraging one another toward love and good deeds. By doing so, we help each other avoid the pitfalls of foolish curiosity and stay committed to God’s purposes. Conclusion: Foolish curiosity can lead us away from God’s will and bring unnecessary trouble into our lives. Let us learn from the examples of Uzzah, Eve, and Lot’s wife, and instead seek God’s wisdom and support one another in obedience and love. By focusing on what truly matters—our relationship with God and our care for one another—we can navigate these difficult times with faith and integrity. Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word that guides and instructs us. Help us to avoid foolish curiosity and to seek Your wisdom in all things. Strengthen us to support and encourage one another, especially in these challenging times. May our actions reflect Your love and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.