“But when Uzziah became strong, he became so proud [of himself and his accomplishments] that he acted corruptly, and he was unfaithful and sinned against the Lord his God, for he went into the temple of the Lord to burn incense on the altar of incense.”

‭‭2 Chronicles‬ ‭26:16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

G-d helped Uzziah greatly because he choose to do right in the sight of the Lord (v. 4). G-d gave him favor and wisdom and the fame of Uzziah spread. But somewhere along the way, Uzziah forgot the source of his wisdom, strength, and fame, and as a result, Uzziah acted corruptly. 

That’s the peril of self sufficiency isn’t it? Thinking that we are the ones who are wise and able – “I self” as my niece once said. 

Self sufficiency is something I’ve taken pride in over the years – my dogged determination to pull myself up by my bootstraps, figure it out, and get it done. I hate asking for help, hate being dependent. But in doing so, the danger of depending on myself alone is that I lose focus of the source of my strength. 

The story of Uzziah is sobering.  Uzziah became so full of himself – that he dishonored the presence of G-d and was struck with leprosy across his forehead and remained a leper until his death. From self sufficiency and fame to an outcast riddled with disease – all because of pride. 

One of the gifts of the last three years has been the brokenness. I was forced to face physical limitations which meant I had to ask for and depend upon help from another. In doing so, I had to face the truth that I wasn’t as strong as I thought – and it’s been a gift. May I ever be mindful that His favor is the only reason I am where I am today. Less of me. More of Him. Because in my weakness He is strong. 

Father – thank You for Your presence and grace. Let Your truth saturate my heart. Give me grace to follow You. You are good and You keep doing good. Your leadership in my life is perfect and You can be trusted. Amen. 

Daily Reading: 2 Kings 15, 2 Chronicles 26

July 8, 2022