A couple years ago, a well-known professional football player was caught trespassing and fishing without a license near Washington Dulles Airport.
Due to his status, he was given a warning. About a month later, he was caught a second time breaking the same laws at the same location. This time he was arrested. Seemingly surprised by the action of the police, the young man accused the police of picking on him because he was a star. Perhaps in this man's eyes, greatness put you above the law.
This is nothing new. The BibleThe books (Greek, "biblia" ) that are acknowledged as canonical (authoritative) by the early Christian Church. It includes both the books of the ancient Hebrew prophets and those of the apostolic witnesses to Jesus Christ. reveals examples of those who felt they were exempt because they had authority.
King Uzziah had all the makings of one of the best kings of Judah. At 16 he became king, and lifted his nation to new heights. Not only was he successful in civic duties, but he also petitioned God for help in ruling the people. God gave him success on the battlefield and within his gates, and we are told Uzziah's fame went out far and wide.
Uzziah was great—as long as he submitted himself to God. His mistake was that rather than continuing to abase himself, "his heart was lifted up" (2 Chronicles 26:16). His selfish attempt to achieve further greatness cost him everything. Examining what we are and remembering where we came from does make a difference. UN
