January 9

The ark of the Lord continued in the house of Obed-edom...: and the Lord blessed Obed-edom, and all his household. — 2 Sam 6:11

The same ark which wrought disaster when irreverently touched now brought blessing to a home in which it was received with love. This fragment of history from the olden days suggests to us the blessing of true religion in a home.

Some people think it would be a loss and a hindrance to receive Christ into a house. It would stop some pleasures. It would drive out some amusements. It would interfere with some ambitions. But those who open their doors to Christ will always be rewarded. Religion blesses a home. It sweetens the home life, enriches the home affections, deepens the home joys, lightens and comforts the home sorrows. It brings true prosperity, for the blessing of the Lord maketh rich. It brings protection, for the angel of the Lord encamps round about them that fear Him. It opens a door between the earthly home and the heavenly, and God’s angels come and go in gentle ministries.