2 Chronicles 25-18

King Uzziah began his reign by seeking after God. Unfortunately, he claimed the accumulation of wealth and influence as his own making and grew proud of himself. The last part of chapter 26 tells the story of Uzziah's rebellion against God.  At the height of his power I picture him strolling about the roof of his palace reviewing the expanse of Jerusalem, enjoying the work of his hands.  Then his eyes fell upon the temple building, and a thought like this sprung up in his proud mind. "I rule over every building in this city excapt that one."  Maybe he questioned; "Why can't I make a sacrifice to God myself? After all I am the King of Judah." Something in his pride filled him with the appetite of burning inscence before God within the Holy place. Maybe he even considered entering before the ark itself. I assume that Uzziah marched down the stairs of his palace and heade to the temple. He might have ignored the greetings of the gatekeepers and the songs of the singers. The king had one selfish goal in his heart so he marched forward toward the altar. He picked up a censor somewhere but the priests on duty took notice of the stranger in their midst. "What is the king doing?" Must have rushed through the descendants of Aaron. When they saw him gather some coals from the altar they understood his intent. Eighty priest rushed into the Holy place and block his way to the altar of incense. There they rebuked the king for his evil intentions. Uzziah became angry with them but God stood with the priests by inflicting Uzziah with leporacy right there. The king fled the temple and was humiliated the rest of his life. What a sad ending for such a promising king.
It took me about 13 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart