The Israelites possessed the Ark of the Covenant , which represented the presence of God, and had been winning battles against their enemies. The Philistines recognized that their victories were due to the ark. In 1 Samuel 5, the Philistines stole it from the Israelites with the intent of giving themselves the advantage. However, they did not understand that God had presented the ark to the Israelites due to their relationship with Him. It was a relationship that the Philistines did not have. Plus, they disrespected it by placing it in the presence of their idol god, Dagon. Therefore, not only did possessing the ark not benefit them, it caused some of them to break out with emerods (boils) in their private area and others died.

Sometimes, you may observe someone who is blessed and winning. You recognize a gift or talent that’s giving them the advantage and think you can just do what they’re doing and get the advantage for yourself. You may even resort to copying or stealing from them, like recording someone else’s music without their permission, using someone else’s jokes as a comedian, or taking credit for someone else’s ideas. What you may fail to realize is people gain their advantage after paying the price. They have successfully endured what they had to endure. The blessings they’re now enjoying are their reward. It wasn’t just handed to them. Therefore, you can’t just take from them and expect the same results. You only open the door for your “emerods” or death. You only receive your blessing by walking in the footsteps that are ordained just for you. There are no shortcuts, and God will not honor your lack of integrity. Stay in your lane. Finish your course. You’ll get yours.

Advantage or Disadvantage