READING: 2 Chronicles 26-29
The words are stinging, convicting . . . and even a bit frightening. King Uzziah did what the Lord wanted him to do; indeed, today’s reading says more than once that he “sought God/the Lord” (2 Chron 26:5). So faithfully did he follow God that God blessed him with strength and might that other peoples noted. His fame spread “even to distant places” (2 Chron 26:15).
But . . . and here’s the frightening part to me: when Uzziah became strong at the Lord’s hand, he also became arrogant. He took the role of a priest, wrongly burned incense on the altar, and brought on himself the judgment of God. For the rest of his life, he paid the price by contracting a skin disease. He was once blessed, faithful, seeking the Lord . . . and then he was prideful, disobedient, and suffering the results. The contrast is dramatic.
Uzziah’s life is a reminder that our faithfulness today is no guarantee of our obedience tomorrow. Truly it is the case that we must deny self and take up our cross daily (Luke 9:23).
PERSONAL REFLECTION: Have you committed this day to the Lord?
DAILY PRAYER: “God, reign in my life today.”
TOMORROW’S READING: 2 Chronicles 30-33
