Daily Manna

Key Verse

“But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction: for he transgressed against the LORD his God, and went into the temple of the LORD to burn incense upon the altar of incense” (2 Chronicles 26:16).

TEXT — 2 Chronicles 26:1-21

Message

Much truth is contained in the saying that, “There’s a thin line between confidence and arrogance… it’s called humility. Confidence smiles, arrogance smirks!” Unfortunately, most people who develop confidence by virtue of attainment are not careful enough to observe that line. They end up where arrogance leads – downfall.

This was the case of Uzziah, the son of Amaziah, who was made king of Judah at age 16. His 52-year reign ushered Judah into one of its most glorious and prosperous era. The source of his success was not hidden. He was under the godly influence of Zechariah the prophet “who had understanding in the visions of God”; and “as long as he sought the LORD, God made him to prosper”. He was a visionary and energetic ruler who invested in agriculture, military advancement and fortification of Jerusalem. He became internationally famous.

Sadly, “when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction”. He crossed the thin line between confidence and arrogance. He was withheld from usurping the priests’ role and he got angry. He was, at once, struck with leprosy and had to abdicate the royal office. Here is the flipside of success. Most people can manage poverty and failure but only few are able to manage prosperity and success.

As the Lord enables you to make progress in life or attain success in your chosen field, it is wise to place your confidence in Him and not in self. Never allow your success to get into your head to the point you attribute it to yourself, look down on others and forget God.

Thought for the day

A poorly managed success turns into failure.

• Bible
• in one year
• 2 KINGS 1 – 2