2 Chronicles 26:5

He sought God throughout the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. And as long as he sought the LORD, God gave him success.

Study Bible

He sought God throughout the days of Zechariah
Uzziah, the king of Judah, is noted for seeking God during the time of Zechariah, a prophet or priest who provided spiritual guidance. This highlights the importance of godly mentorship and leadership. Zechariah's role was crucial in guiding Uzziah, emphasizing the biblical principle that leaders should seek wise counsel (Proverbs 11:14). The historical context shows that during this period, Judah experienced relative peace and prosperity, which can be attributed to Uzziah's faithfulness in seeking God.

who instructed him in the fear of God
Zechariah's instruction in the fear of God underscores the biblical theme that wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). This fear is not about being afraid but having reverence and awe for God's holiness and authority. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed high value on the role of prophets and priests in teaching and maintaining the covenant relationship with God. This instruction would have included adherence to the Law and the importance of worship and obedience.

And as long as he sought the LORD
This phrase indicates a conditional relationship between Uzziah's actions and God's blessings. The biblical narrative often shows that seeking God leads to divine favor and guidance (Jeremiah 29:13). The historical context of Uzziah's reign, which was marked by military success and economic growth, reflects the blessings that come from seeking God. This principle is echoed throughout Scripture, where seeking God is associated with finding life and prosperity (Deuteronomy 4:29).

God gave him success
The success given by God to Uzziah is a testament to the covenantal promises found in the Old Testament, where obedience to God results in blessings (Deuteronomy 28:1-14). Uzziah's success included military victories, architectural achievements, and agricultural advancements, which are documented in the surrounding chapters. This success can be seen as a type of Christ, who perfectly sought the Father and achieved ultimate victory over sin and death, offering spiritual success to believers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Uzziah
King of Judah who began his reign at the age of 16 and ruled for 52 years. Known for his military successes and innovations, his reign was marked by prosperity as long as he sought the Lord.

2. Zechariah
A spiritual advisor to King Uzziah, who instructed him in the fear of God. His influence was pivotal in Uzziah's early success.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, over which Uzziah reigned. During his reign, Judah experienced significant growth and prosperity.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, whose guidance and favor were crucial to Uzziah's success.

5. Success
The prosperity and victories that Uzziah experienced as a direct result of seeking God.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Counsel
Uzziah's success was linked to the godly instruction he received from Zechariah. Surrounding ourselves with wise, God-fearing mentors can guide us in our spiritual journey.

The Fear of the Lord
The fear of God is foundational to wisdom and success. It involves reverence, awe, and obedience to God's commands.

The Conditional Nature of Success
Uzziah's prosperity was conditional upon his seeking the Lord. Our success, too, is often tied to our relationship with God and our obedience to His will.

The Danger of Pride
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Uzziah's later downfall due to pride serves as a warning. We must remain humble and dependent on God, even in times of success.

Consistency in Seeking God
Uzziah's success was as long as he sought the Lord. Consistent devotion and seeking God should be a lifelong pursuit, not just a temporary phase.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Zechariah in Uzziah's life illustrate the importance of having spiritual mentors? Can you identify a mentor in your life who has helped you grow in your faith?

2. Reflect on a time when you experienced success. How did your relationship with God influence that period? What lessons can you learn from Uzziah's example?

3. In what ways can we cultivate the fear of the Lord in our daily lives? How does this fear lead to wisdom and success?

4. How can we guard against pride when we experience success, as seen in Uzziah's later life? What practical steps can we take to remain humble?

5. Consider the phrase "as long as he sought the LORD." What are some practical ways you can ensure that seeking God remains a consistent priority in your life? How does this align with Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:33?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 15
Provides a parallel account of Uzziah's reign, highlighting his accomplishments and eventual downfall due to pride.

Proverbs 9:10
Emphasizes the importance of the fear of the Lord as the beginning of wisdom, which aligns with Zechariah's instruction to Uzziah.

Matthew 6:33
Jesus teaches about seeking first the kingdom of God, which parallels the principle of seeking God for success.

Psalm 1:1-3
Describes the blessedness of the man who delights in the law of the Lord, similar to Uzziah's initial devotion.