This is one of the stranger moments in the Scriptures. What was so wrong with trying to steady the ark and keep it from falling? Did this man really need to lose his life for this error? Nevertheless, this is how the life of Uzzah came to a sudden end. Lives end suddenly in all kinds of ways, and those of us watching should try to learn what we can in our confusion and grief. David did learn. He was trying to use the ark as a production for his own fame. He disregarded the careful instructions God had given. He did not fear the Lord with reverence. The damage was severe, and the lesson cut deep.