Living low

When he was strong his heart was lifted up, to his destruction. — 2 Chronicles 26:16

Dwight L. Moody said, “When a man thinks he has got a good deal of strength, and is self-confident, you may look for his downfall. It may be years before it comes to light, but it is already commenced.” This was true of King Uzziah.

Everything seemed to be going so well in his life. He was obedient, submitted to spiritual mentorship, and sought God’s guidance during most of his reign. As long as he asked God for help, God gave him great success — evidence by his many accomplishments (2 Chron. 26:3-15).

Uzziah’s life was one of great power and human success until he became blinded by it. His pride was evidenced in several ways: he challenged God’s holiness by trespassing the temple and presuming upon a position he would never be able to have (v. 16); he viewed God’s power as good but not absolutely necessary for his leadership (vv 5, 16); he refused godly correction and counsel (vv. 18-19); he bypassed his opportunity to repent; and he ignored instead of feared, the consequences of his sin (vv. 18-19).

When God gives us success in any area of our lives, let’s not forget the Source of our success. May we choose humility, for God gives grace to the humble. — Marvin Williams

Is thy heart right with God,

Washed in the crimson flood,

Cleansed and made holy, humble and lowly,

Right in the sight of God? — Hoffman

READ: 2 Chronicles 26:3-19

God lifts us high when we choose to live low.

The Bible in one year:

• Daniel 8-10

• 3 John