The “Uzziah syndrome”: How pride can completely reverse your fortunes
I’ve studied the devastating effects of pride. Like carbon monoxide, it is “tasteless, colorless, and odorless.” You may be dying from it and not even recognize it. It happened to King Uzziah of Judah:
“And his fame spread far, for he was marvellously helped, UNTIL he was strong. But when he was strong, he grew PROUD, to his destruction” (2 Chron. 26: 15-16)
There it is.
Uzziah went into the temple (against the law) and was struck with leprosy. From a king to an outcast in one moment.
These signs will help you to spot pride before it destroys you:
1. “No accountability”
The priests tried to stop Uzziah when he entered the temple to offer incense. He angrily defied them. The moment he did, leprosy broke out on his forehead.
Who do I have in my life who knows me well enough to be able to correct me without me getting angry?
Pride cuts you off from God’s blessing, We should position ourselves with a spouse or friends who we give the right to immediately call us out at the first sign of pride.
2. “Continual boasting”
Pride boasts. It loves to rehearse its achievements. It dominates every conversation with details of accomplishments. No one else can get a word in edgewise. It has no desire to hear the story of others.
Beware.
Arrogant speech is a stench to God (like boastful Goliath).
Try resting in a conversation. Ask questions of others to learn the details of their story and accomplishments.
3. “Constant advice”
Pride loves to give everyone advice. It is convinced of its brilliance and experience. It is somehow a consultant on every topic even to the point of exaggeration.
Don’t give advice unless someone asks for it. They will be far more open if you are answering their question. Don’t assume that they want your advice.
4. “Display and performance”
Satan tried to get Jesus to throw Himself 90 feet down from the temple roof to prove His Divinity as the Son of God.
Pride loves display. It puts on a show. Life becomes a constant performance, usually prefaced with the phrase, “Watch this.”
If we are given a stage or platform, we must use it humbly to give all glory to God. Be careful even of the platform of social media. It can become an endless display of the finer points of your life experience to impress the masses of your “adoring fans.”
5. “Extreme selfishness and ambition”
Notice if you demand everyone else “orbit” around your preferences and wishes. Every vacation, restaurant, and movie is your preference.
Pride is endlessly pushing for its way and career path.
Serving is the opposite. Jesus washed feet. He was only sensitive to the needs of others.
“God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6)
Just ask Uzziah.