What can we learn about pride from King Amaziah's response in this verse? The Verse in Focus 2 Chronicles 25:16: “While he was still speaking, the king asked, ‘Have we appointed you as an adviser to the king? Stop! Why be struck down?’ So the prophet stopped, but said, ‘I know that God has determined to destroy you, because you have done this and have not listened to my counsel.’” Amaziah’s Heart Revealed • The king rejects God’s prophet outright—“Have we appointed you…?” • He threatens violence to silence correction—“Why be struck down?” • His refusal seals his fate—“God has determined to destroy you.” Identifying the Root of Pride 1. Self-sufficiency: Amaziah behaves as though authority comes from himself, not God (contrast 1 Samuel 2:7–8). 2. Contempt for counsel: Pride makes advice feel like an intrusion (Proverbs 13:10). 3. Hardening after partial obedience: Earlier he “did what was right… yet not wholeheartedly” (2 Chron 25:2). Incomplete surrender often mutates into open defiance. Consequences of Ignoring Godly Counsel • Proverbs 16:18: “Pride goes before destruction.” Amaziah’s end fulfills this axiom. • 2 Chron 25:20: “God determined to hand them over.” Divine judgment follows unrepentant pride. • James 4:6: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Amaziah experiences opposition instead of grace. Lessons for Us Today • Authority is stewardship, not ownership—leaders remain accountable to God (Romans 13:1). • The more public the position, the more dangerous concealed pride becomes (2 Chron 26:16 with Uzziah). • Silencing conviction doesn’t remove guilt; it removes rescue (Acts 7:51). • A teachable spirit is evidence of humility and safety (Proverbs 15:31–33). Guardrails Against Pride • Welcome correction—see it as God’s gift, not an insult (Hebrews 12:5–6). • Regularly examine motives through Scripture and prayerful reflection (Psalm 139:23–24). • Surround yourself with courageous, truth-telling friends (Proverbs 27:6). • Remember Christ’s model: though King of kings, He humbled Himself (Philippians 2:5–8). |
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