“…and as long as he sought the Lord, God made him prosper.” 2 Chronicles 26:5

The Lord gives and the Lord takes away.

What if God chose to remove His favor over your ministry, finances, business, or talents, for some time? How will you respond if the Lord sovereignly uproots you from a relationship or a position in ministry?

Uzziah, whose father was Amaziah, the former king of Judah, became king at sixteen years old. He was a king of dignity and strategic manner. He sought the Lord and was willing to serve God. Uzziah made war with the Philistines, Jerusalem’s long-time enemy, and gained victory over them, along with many others (v.6-8). Scripture shows us how wonderful and mighty God is. His right hand upheld Uzziah and the city of Judah. Nobody could defeat them because the Lord was on their side. Yet, soon after Uzziah became dependent on himself, leading his heart into haughtiness over time he openly disobeyed God by doing what only a priest can do (v.18-21). Consequently, he was left with a lifelong illness.

The issue with the human heart is that we do not fully comprehend our desperate need for God’s strength, favor, and wisdom. If only Uzziah obeyed the Lord’s command and remembered he was not immortal, the Lord would perhaps continue to bless his kingship.

Amid God’s abundant blessing over one’s ministry, an enemy is waiting to devour through a prideful and self-reliant spirit.

When I started ministry, I remember losing sight and becoming transfixed on my gifts rather than the Gift Giver. I began to rely on my skill, rather than His Spirit. I can recall the day I sat down to write for my social media and my mind went blank. I wondered why I had nothing to say. The Lord gently called me to humble myself in that moment. I stepped back from writing and ran to my Father for mercy. My heart was easily drawn away by the confidence I took in the praise I received. Instead of returning it to Jesus, I wore them like medals around my neck and crowns on my head.

It is much too easy to become dependent on our gifts, positions, and rewards. There is a constant battle in the spiritual realm, fighting to have the throne in our hearts. The child of God who postures their heart to be a servant of God is honored by God. On the other hand, a king who does not view himself as a servant, but as a ruler, is one God looks down upon. As we see, Matthew 23:12 says, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

Friends, may we choose humility over honor as we serve the Lord. May our service unto Him be as a sweet-smelling aroma.

Prayer

Dear Abba Father,

I don’t want to give into the lie that I can do this all alone. Lord, I need Your Spirit every day, regardless of whether my circumstances are in my favor or not. You are my source of life and strength. You are the very essence of wisdom. It is a privilege to serve You. Would You protect my heart from relying on myself? Provide the grace necessary for me to honor You in spirit and truth.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen.