For the ninth king of Judah, he started out in the right direction. 2 Chronicles 26:4 says that Uzziah “did what was right in the sight of the Lord.” To summarize those first years on the throne, “He sought God” and “God helped him” (26:5-7). But, “his fame spread…he became exceedingly strong…he built towers…he fortified them…he dug many wells…he had an army of fighting men…he made devices…his fame spread far and wide” (26:8-15).
The first word of verse 16 speaks volumes. “But when he was strong…” In those first years, “he did what was right in the sight of the Lord.” But, his power, strength and fame went to his head. “…When he was strong his heart was lifted up, to his destruction, for he transgressed against the Lord his God…”
He started out strong, but then he gave himself all the credit and glory, instead of God. In the end, “he was cut off” (26:21). May we start strong and finish strong with God and for God!