In Jerusalem he made machines designed by skillful men for use on the towers and on the corner defenses to shoot arrows and hurl large stones. His fame spread far and wide, for he was greatly helped until he became powerful. But after Uzziah became powerful, his pride led to his downfall. He was unfaithful to the Lord his God, and entered the temple of the Lord to burn incense on the altar of incense.
2 Chronicles 26:15-16 NIV
Pride comes before fall. Webster defines pride as: a high or inordinate opinion of one's own dignity, importance, merit, or superiority, whether as cherished in the mind or as displayed in being, conduct, etc.
King Uzziah, a popular king, is successful because he was greatly helped. One of the ways he was greatly helped was because of God's prospering of his armies and allowing many military victories. In view of his successes, he becomes proud and considers himself able to be a priest in addition to his role as a king. He desires to burn incense on the altar of incense.
81 priests in total confront this popular king with his folly and despite this confrontation, he did not depart and repent, but rather became angry and raged at the priests.
During that confrontation, leprosy broke out on his forehead and he was afflicted with leprosy until he died. As a result of his leprosy, he was separated from his palace, his community and suffered greatly.
Consider the inhabitants of Laodicea, a thriving ancient city located in what is now Western Turkey. These residents were so proud of their merino wool, their optic balms, their hot and cold running water, and other accomplishments, that they separated themselves from others by refusing outside help after an earthquake. Consider the ruin that city is now.
Reflect on how a great start does not guarantee a great finish. Seeking help in God, prayer, humility, community and service to others might fall by the wayside as pride, separation and self-service creep in. Pride, or a high opinion of one's dignity or self might tempt us to look only to ourselves for help and thus separate us from God who desires we approach and serve with a humble, thankful, and greatful heart.
Where do you look for help when you have a project at hand?
Do you pray about your daily projects?
What attitudes do you display as you complete your projects?
Pray for a humble, thankful, Spirit-led, servant's heart as you complete your projects.
In Christ,
David P
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