1Sam4:22; 4:3-11 And she said,The glory is departed from Isreal: for the ark of God is taken.
The ark of God which is an epitome of God's presence in Isreal could nothing like defending them when faced with defeat due to Indiscipline, Covetousness, Hypocrisy, Adultery, Backsliding, Obstinacy and Disobedience. With the aim of the Israelites using it as defence and defending it-The soul that sinneth it shall die. The ark get to Ashdod,The presence of the ARK started working by cutting off dagon and smotng the men of the city,both small and great,and they had emerods in their secret parts.
Why the ark of God is doing wonders in an Idolatrous city and not in an Iniquitous city of Isreal? To put the BIBLE or any religous material under the pillow will do no one any good unless its content is believed and practice..PSALMIST know the importance of hidding the word of GOD in his heart (PSALM 119:11). The downfall of dagon did not teach them enough lessons.It is not good to wait until there is retribution as a result of sin before one REPENTS.. THE BEST TIME TO AMEND OUR WAYS IS NOW..2 Corinthians 6:2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)