Uzziah became king at the age of sixteen. Uzziah’s 52 year reign can be summarized, ‘as long as he sought the LORD, God gave him success.’ (5)

At first, he followed the good example of his father, Amaziah, under the influence of Zechariah, the prophet. And God rewarded him with great success as He had promised to his forefathers. Uzziah’s military campaign made his name known among the surrounding nations (8). He planned and built secure cities in fertile land (10). His army became powerful in both supplies and technology (11-15).

However, he failed to bear the blessing with a humble heart. He became unfaithful to God and entered the temple to burn incense, a job designated only for the priests of God. Instead of repenting at the protest of righteous priests, he became enraged in front of the altar. As a result, God punished him to live the rest of his life as a leper, living in an isolated house (21).

Uzziah’s rise and fall show us that God has the power to give and to take away (Job 1:21).
Application: Father, thank you for reminding me that all blessings come from you. Please help me to be humble and trust you in times of despair, and give glory to you when I am successful.
One Word: As long as he sought the LORD