2 Chronicles 26:4

And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Amaziah had done.

Study Bible

And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD
This phrase indicates a moral and spiritual evaluation of King Uzziah's reign, suggesting that his actions were in alignment with God's standards. In the context of the Old Testament, doing what is right in the eyes of the LORD often involves adherence to the Mosaic Law and the worship of Yahweh alone, rejecting idolatry. This phrase is used throughout the books of Kings and Chronicles to assess the kings of Israel and Judah, highlighting the importance of obedience to God. It reflects the Deuteronomic principle that obedience leads to blessing, while disobedience leads to judgment.

just as his father Amaziah had done
Amaziah, Uzziah's father, also began his reign by doing what was right in the eyes of the LORD, though not wholeheartedly (2 Chronicles 25:2). This comparison suggests a continuation of a legacy of initial faithfulness to God, though Amaziah's later actions, such as idolatry after his victory over Edom, led to his downfall. The mention of Amaziah serves as a reminder of the potential pitfalls of not maintaining a steadfast commitment to God. It also underscores the biblical theme of generational influence, where the actions and faith of one generation can impact the next. This connection to Amaziah provides a historical context for Uzziah's reign and serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of deviating from God's commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Uzziah (Azariah)
The king of Judah who began his reign at the age of sixteen and ruled for fifty-two years. He is noted for doing what was right in the eyes of the LORD, following the example of his father, Amaziah.

2. Amaziah
The father of Uzziah, who also did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, though not wholeheartedly. His reign provides a backdrop for understanding Uzziah's initial faithfulness.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Uzziah reigned. It was a time of relative prosperity and military strength under Uzziah's leadership.

4. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, where Uzziah would have carried out much of his administrative and religious duties.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, whose standards of righteousness Uzziah initially followed.

Teaching Points

Righteous Leadership
Uzziah's early reign exemplifies the importance of leaders doing what is right in the eyes of the LORD. This sets a standard for godly leadership in all areas of life.

Influence of Parental Example
Uzziah followed in the footsteps of his father, Amaziah, showing the significant impact parents have on their children's spiritual direction.

The Danger of Pride
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Uzziah's later downfall due to pride serves as a warning against self-reliance and forgetting God's role in our successes.

Consistency in Faith
Uzziah's life encourages believers to maintain a consistent walk with God, avoiding the pitfalls of starting well but finishing poorly.

Accountability to God
Ultimately, our actions are judged by God’s standards, not human ones. Uzziah's initial righteousness was noted by God, reminding us of our accountability to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Uzziah's example of doing what is right in the eyes of the LORD challenge you in your current leadership roles or responsibilities?

2. In what ways can the influence of a parent or mentor shape one's spiritual journey, as seen in Uzziah's life?

3. Reflect on a time when pride may have led you away from God's path. How can Uzziah's account help you guard against this in the future?

4. How can you ensure consistency in your walk with God, avoiding the pattern of starting well but finishing poorly?

5. Considering the accountability we have before God, how can you align your daily actions more closely with His standards?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 15
This chapter provides a parallel account of Uzziah's reign, offering additional insights into his accomplishments and failures.

Isaiah 6
The prophet Isaiah's vision of the LORD occurs in the year of King Uzziah's death, highlighting the transition from Uzziah's reign to a new era in Judah's history.

Psalm 1
This psalm describes the blessedness of the man who walks in the way of the LORD, similar to how Uzziah initially walked in righteousness.

Proverbs 3:5-6
These verses emphasize trusting in the LORD and acknowledging Him in all ways, a principle that Uzziah followed early in his reign.