Why is the Ark of the Covenant significant in the battle described in 1 Samuel?

The Ark of the Covenant is a profound symbol of God's presence among His people and His covenant relationship with them. In 1 Samuel 4, the Israelites brought the Ark into battle, believing it would be their source of victory. However, their reliance on the Ark as a mere object rather than recognizing it as a representation of God's holiness led to their defeat. This misappropriation demonstrates a larger issue within Israel's faith: it's not the religious artifacts that save, but God Himself. Hebrews 4:14 encourages believers to approach the throne of grace, not through rituals but through Christ, the true mediator.