In today’s world of vertical screen and fifteen minutes of fame, seeking attention trumps sanity. In the past, we are taught not to flaunt our fortune. Today, influencers and content creators just want to show off their material possessions and stupidity.
We read 2 Kings 20:12-21 today. It is a watershed moment in the life of King Hezekiah. After his miraculous healing, he received envoys from Babylon. He opens the kimono. In a moment of pride, he shows them everything – gold, silver, spices, and weapons. “There was nothing in his palace or in all his kingdom that Hezekiah did not show them” (see verse 13).
Hezekiah’s momentary lapse of judgement has devastating consequences, as foretold by the prophet Isaiah. Not only all the possessions will be taken away, even some of the king’s descendants will be taken captive. Hezekiah fails to keep his focus on God.
This story of Hezekiah is a cautionary tale about the danger of pride and complacency. Do not let the successes and blessings from God distract us from the reality that all of them come from God. The moment we focus on the gifts and lose sight of the giver, we become vulnerable, and we make bad decisions and bring dire consequences. Instead of seeking and flaunting personal glory, we are called to remain humble and give God the glory for all we have.
Are there moments in your life when you feel proud and arrogant? Are there times you feel you are better than everyone else? Are there times you inadvertently or deliberately show off your house or your car or your dog? Do something about it.
I invite you to say this prayer.
Father, help me to guard my heart against pride and to remember that all we have is a gift from you. Keep me humble, and may I always seek your guidance in my decisions. Teach me to honour you in everything I do. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
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