How should we balance personal achievements with humility before God? Setting the scene: Uzziah’s rise and reputation “ The Ammonites paid tribute to Uzziah, and his fame spread even to the border of Egypt, because he became exceedingly powerful.” – 2 Chronicles 26:8 • Uzziah starts well, seeking God (26:5). • God grants military victories, economic growth, and technological advances (26:6-15). • His achievements become so visible that surrounding nations pay respect and tribute. Success recognized by the nations • Tribute from the Ammonites shows worldly acknowledgment. • Fame reaching “even to the border of Egypt” marks a high-water line of influence for Judah. • Scripture presents this acclaim as factual, not exaggerated; God truly prospered him. The peril of unchecked pride “ But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction, for he was unfaithful to the LORD his God …” – 2 Chronicles 26:16 • The same power that made Uzziah great became the setting for downfall. • Pride led him to presume priestly privileges, and leprosy followed (26:16-21). • Contrast 26:8 with 26:16: fame without humility turns blessing into judgment. Timeless lessons on achievement and humility • God is the true source of success (Deuteronomy 8:17-18). • Pride precedes ruin (Proverbs 16:18). • “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). • We are stewards, not owners (1 Corinthians 4:7). • Every accomplishment must ultimately aim at God’s glory (1 Corinthians 10:31). Practical habits to keep success in its proper place • Give immediate, specific thanks whenever praise comes your way. • Regularly recount how the Lord opened doors you could never force open. • Invite trusted believers to speak candidly if they sense pride creeping in. • Reinforce service: use your skills to bless those who cannot repay you (Luke 14:12-14). • Keep God’s word before you; Micah 6:8 summarizes the attitude He desires. • Prioritize secret acts of obedience that no one applauds (Matthew 6:1-4). Encouragement to finish well Uzziah’s story warns but also instructs. Start like him—seeking God diligently—but determine by grace to finish unlike him, maintaining a heart that deflects glory upward. When achievements pile up, anchor every step in conscious humility, and you will find that honor from God far outshines any tribute the world can offer. |
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