Victory has a way of going to our heads. After we win once, we think we’re invincible. If we make a killing in stocks during a bullish market, we think we are infallible investors. Or if we earn one advanced degree, we think we’re an expert on everything. Yet God has a way of humbling the proud and bringing us back to reality.

Amaziah of Judah took the throne after his father was assassinated (2 Kings 12:20–21). Although he was a righteous king, under his rule the nation still worshiped at high (idolatrous) places (14:3–4). Nevertheless, he had early success. He punished the men who overthrew his father and consolidated power in Jerusalem. He marshaled the army and defeated Edom, the kingdom to the east, killing 10,000 enemy soldiers (v. 7).

This victory increased Amaziah’s confidence to the point that he was willing to confront the kingdom of Israel to his north. He issued a challenge to Jehoash of Israel. Jehoash sarcastically dismissed him with a humorous tale (vv. 8–10). But Amaziah would not be convinced. He met his enemy in battle and was soundly defeated. Jehoahaz captured him, brought him to Jerusalem, looted the Temple, and destroyed a portion of the city’s wall. The event was so humiliating that the nation revolted against the king and assassinated him, as they did his father (v. 19).

Amaziah’s early victories convinced him that he could not lose. Although he did what was right, he allowed pride to fill him to the point that he could not recognize that his true strength came from the Lord who put him on the throne. His pride was responsible for his downfall. Have you had success in life? Has it taught you to be thankful or has it led you to take greater risk? Consider that the Lord has blessed you for a reason. He desires your faithfulness, not your victory.

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