Uzziah became king when he was sixteen (2 Chronicles 26:1-5). The Lord blessed him with much success and prosperity (2 Chronicles 26:6-15). He started well with God but eventually fell into the trap of pride (2 Chronicles 26:16-23).
Uzziah offered incense on the altar. This was a work that was to be limited to the priests. Azariah and eighty priests rebuked him. Their rebuke angered the king, but before he could punish God’s servants, the Lord struck him with leprosy on his forehead.
What are some pride indicators?
- When we compare ourselves to others (Luke 18:9-12). The self-righteous Pharisee puffed himself up by comparing himself to a man that he felt wasn’t as spiritual and righteous as him.
- When we are overconfident. Overconfident Christians can find themselves flirting with sin and failing to continue to grow in Christ (2 Peter 3:18).
- When we are not willing to self-evaluate. King Ahab wasn’t willing to examine himself and realize that he was the source of Israel’s problems (1 Kings 18:16-17). How often do people behave like Ahab in their marriages and relationships with brethren?
- When we reject correction. King Uzziah rejected the godly counsel of the priests (2 Chronicles 26:17-19). Have you ever gotten upset when saints pull you aside to talk about spiritual growth that may be lacking in your life?
- When we are unwilling to repent. King Uzziah’s story might have turned out differently if he had immediately repented. Instead, he became arrogant and defiant.
What does having humility involve?
- It involves remembering who we are (Matthew 5:3). We are unrighteous servants who don’t deserve God’s grace and forgiveness (Luke 18:13-14). We are no better than any other servant in the kingdom!
- It involves being cautious (1 Corinthians 10:12; 1 Peter 5:6-9). We are always sober, alert, and striving to stand firm in the faith. We are always seeking to grow and improve for the Lord.
- It involves being willing to self-evaluate. Instead of being quick to blame others for the problems in our relationships, we need to internally make sure that we possess hearts like Jesus (Philippians 2:3-5).
- It involves being willing to accept correction. Apollos humbly accepted correction from brethren and was made better for the Lord (Acts 18:24-25). Instead of closing our ears to the counsel of others, we need to listen and be open to what they are saying.
- It involves being willing to repent. Repentance always involves an admitting of failure and transgression against God (2 Samuel 12:13).
Conclusion:
Have you humbly submitted to the gospel of Christ (Mark 16:16)?
