At the age of 16, Uzziah took the throne of Judah. Despite his young age, we are told that "...he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD." (v 4). With the influence of Zechariah, this young man strived to walk in the ways of God, and as a result, God showered blessings upon him.

Uzziah was successful in battle (v 6-7), and received recognition among the nations (v 8). He was commander over an immense army (v 12-14). His fame was spread and his strength was increased (v 15). All these blessings issued from the fact that "...he sought the LORD, and God made him prosper."

Such a wonderful beginning, but the end of Uzziah is dismal. The historic record continues, "But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction..." (v 16). His success came from a determined desire to faithfully follow the LORD, but as he became more powerful, he left this course. He was much like Saul, who went from being little in his own eyes to exalting his will above that of the LORD (1 Samuel 15:17-19).

Uzziah entered the sanctuary of the temple to burn incense upon the altar, which was the duty of the sons of Aaron (v 16-18). Rather than heed the warning of God's servants, the king became angry and sought to proceed with his intended course. Thus, God struck him with leprosy. We are told, "King Uzziah was a leper until the day of his death. He dwelt in an isolated house, because he was a leper; for he was cut off from the house of the LORD." (v 21)

Friend, let us not have a heart that is "lifted up". Let us not cease from seeking the LORD's way and turn to our own. The Proverb writer warns us, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." (Pr 16:18) If we will be prosperous as God's people, we must seek after the ways of the Lord and do what is right in the sight of the LORD.