How can we apply the lesson of humility from 2 Chronicles 26:18 today? Setting the Scene 2 Chronicles 26:18: “They confronted King Uzziah and said, ‘This is not for you, Uzziah, to burn incense to the LORD; that is for the priests, the descendants of Aaron, who have been consecrated to burn incense. Leave the sanctuary, for you have acted unfaithfully! You will not receive honor from the LORD God.’” What Went Wrong for Uzziah • God had prospered Uzziah (vv. 4–15), yet “his fame spread” (v. 15) led to pride. • He crossed a line God had clearly drawn: only priests could offer incense (Exodus 30:7-8, Hebrews 5:4). • When corrected, he grew angry instead of repentant (v. 19). • The LORD immediately struck him with leprosy, and he lived isolated until death (vv. 20-23). Timeless Principles • Humility safeguards blessing; pride jeopardizes it. – “Pride goes before destruction” (Proverbs 16:18). • God assigns roles and boundaries for our good. • Correction is a gift; resisting it compounds sin. • Honor comes from God, not self-promotion (1 Samuel 2:30b). Practical Steps for Today • Start every success story with gratitude. Acknowledge God as the source (James 1:17). • Stay in your lane. Respect God-ordained authorities—parents, church leaders, employers (Romans 13:1-2). • Welcome accountability. Invite mature believers to speak truth when you drift (Proverbs 27:6). • Check motives before serving. Ask, “Am I seeking the Lord’s glory or my own?” (1 Corinthians 10:31). • Respond to correction with softness, not defensiveness (Proverbs 15:31-32). • Practice hidden acts of obedience that no one sees but God (Matthew 6:3-4). • Daily surrender your rights as Christ did: “He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death” (Philippians 2:8). Promises to Encourage Humility • “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). • “Humble yourselves…that He may exalt you at the proper time” (1 Peter 5:6). • “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted” (Psalm 34:18). A Closing Encouragement Living humbly keeps us usable and close to the Lord. Remember Uzziah’s warning, embrace correction quickly, and watch God bestow honor in His timing upon those who stay low before Him. |
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