March 17
The Continual Burnt Offering" B ut when he was strong his heart was lifted up, to his destruction, for he trangressed against the Lord his God by entering the temple of the Lord to burn incense on the altar of incense."
T here is a very real danger in success even for those who are children of God. It is easy to become proud and to take credit to oneself instead of giving all the glory to Him through whom promotion comes (Psalms 75:6-7). King Uzziah, as he is called here, otherwise known as Azariah (2 Kings 14:21; 2 Kings 15:1-7), is a striking illustration of this truth. Like many others, he began well and ended badly. In his early years he was earnest and energetic in building up the kingdom of Judah and in furthering the observance of the law of the Lord. While under the helpful influence of “Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of God” (2 Chronicles 26:5), he sought after God, and as long as he did so he prospered. “But when he was strong his heart was lifted up, to his destruction.” In his old age he became “disqualified” (1 Corinthians 9:27). He was set to one side as unfit to be used of the Lord, while his son acted as regent in his place.
There is a service God-inspired,
A zeal that tireless grows,
Where self is crucified with Christ,
And joy unceasing flows.
There is a being “right with God,”
That yields to His commands
Unswerving, true fidelity,
A loyalty that stands.
There is a meekness free from pride,
That feels no anger rise
At slights, or hate, or ridicule,
But counts the cross a prize.
There is a patience that endures
Without a fret or care,
But joyful sings, “His will be done,
My Lord’s sweet grace I share.”