Thought to Guide Your Reading
Azariah/Uzziah outlived his love for God.Summary in 100 Words or Less
Amaziah's son Uzziah (also named Azariah) governed Judah for 52 years as a good king, though he left the shrines. God helped him defeat several kings. He earned a great reputation for defensive towers and his massive army.His power eventually corrupted him. He sacrificed on his own, not waiting for the priest. God struck him with leprosy and he died in seclusion.
Jotham reigned similar to his father's early life.
In Israel, they went through one disastrous king after another: Zechariah, Shallum, Menahem, Pekahiah, Pekah, and Hoshea. Assyria invaded much of the land and took the people into captivity.
How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right
Power does not give an excuse to do as you wish.
God blessed Uzziah (Azariah) greatly. He was a strong king who earned a great reputation for having a strong army. Unfortunately, his power corrupted him. He became unwilling to submit to God and ultimately died with leprosy. Beware: power corrupts because it makes you believe you can do whatever you wish.God is relaxing his protection over Israel.
The story of Israel gets worse and worse. Each king cares less and less for God. Although they did not go to the extreme as Ahab, none of them tried to come back to God. Because of this, Assyria began taking land from them and taking the people off into captivity. Unfortunately, the story does not get better. God will need to send a prophet to help the people understand why they are going into captivity and help them look forward to returning to God and their land once again.How have you seen power corrupt?
