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The most important factor in the growth of Uzziah’s power is that he sought God and grew in faith as presented in 2 Chronicles 26-27. Uzziah received help from his instructor named Zechariah who taught him to fear God. He was victorious in war and he rebuilt towns as God helped. Other accomplishments included building towers to help with securing Judah and cisterns to help provide water for the livestock in the rural areas. He put to work many in the fields and vineyards of the fertile lands (V. 26:10).
He had a well trained army with plenty of weapons and supplies. His political power and fame spread until pride got to him. He burned incense to God in the temple and this was not right because only the priests were consecrated for this activity. The priests corrected him but Uzziah became angry. While he was raging at the priests in their presence before the incense altar in the Lord’s temple, leprosy broke out on his forehead (V. 26:19). He spent the rest of his life in seclusion.
Jotham his son became king at the age of 25 and he learned from his father’s successes and mistakes. The only weakness of his rule as noted by the chronicler is that the people continued their corrupt practices (V. 27:2). He did not enter the temple of the Lord and he kept his pride in check and was mostly successful throughout his reign.
Faith was a factor in success for both Uzziah and Jotham. It can also be a major factor in our own life and goals. It is faith that provides a balanced life; assuring hope for a positive future during difficulties and humility during good times. This day with God, believe that every doubt or fear will be replaced with a deep abiding trust in Him.
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