But after Uzziah became powerful, his pride led to his downfall. He was unfaithful to the Lord his God, and entered the temple of the Lord to burn incense on the altar of incense. (2 Chron. 26:16)

DUANE WAS POSITIONED perfectly for success. He’d been a faithful employee at Smithson Concrete for almost twenty years. He knew every part of the business—from running the warehouse to mixing concrete for custom applications. It was no surprise, then, that Duane became president of Smithson when the founder’s son retired. What was surprising was the change in Duane’s personality after his promotion. He seemed bound and determined to undermine his own success. At one time, Duane had enthusiastically acknowledged his coworkers’ contributions. These days, Duane bragged about how he’d carried Smithson on his back for years. The last straw for the board of directors was when Duane came to the company Christmas party drunk and insulted two generations of the Smithson family.

Uzziah began his role as Judah’s king with all the promise in the world. For years he followed the ways of God. As a result, he became a great warrior and king of a very prosperous nation. But the power of Uzziah’s position went to his head. As the Scriptures plainly say, Uzziah’s pride caused his downfall. He thwarted his own success.

Duane’s fall from grace at Smithson was a harsh reminder of his need to live out his faith in Christ on the job. Today, Duane works for one of Smithson’s competitors and makes sure his behavior enhances, not thwarts, his success.

With God’s help, eliminate one behavior that seems to thwart your success.

Steve Wamberg is a husband, dad, writer, and pastor who loves his wife, kids and their spouses, preaching, teaching, music, coffee, friends, and Nebraska football.