Wednesday: “Come See My Zeal”: The Subtlety of Spiritual Pride

Key Idea: Pride can grow even in the middle of God-honoring activity.

Reading: 2 Kings 10:15–17. “And when he departed from there, he met Jehonadab the son of Rechab coming to meet him. And he greeted him and said to him, “Is your heart true to my heart as mine is to yours?” And Jehonadab answered, “It is.” Jehu said, “If it is, give me your hand.” So he gave him his hand. And Jehu took him up with him into the chariot. And he said, “Come with me, and see my zeal for the Lord.” So he had him ride in his chariot. And when he came to Samaria, he struck down all who remained to Ahab in Samaria, till he had wiped them out, according to the word of the Lord that he spoke to Elijah.”

Devotional Thought: As Jehu continues his mission, he meets Jehonadab son of Rechab—an ally who is faithful to the Lord. Jehu asks, “Is your heart true to my heart as mine is to yours?” When Jehonadab agrees, Jehu invites him into his chariot and says, “Come with me, and see my zeal for the Lord.” It sounds good, even spiritual—but listen carefully: “Come see my zeal.” That sentence hints at a dangerous shift. Jehu is no longer simply doing God’s will; he’s starting to broadcast his own devotion. When our obedience becomes a way to showcase ourselves, pride is already at work.

In this short passage, the narrative gives us a window into Jehu’s inner world. He is still carrying out what God commanded—striking down what remains of Ahab’s house in Samaria, fulfilling the word of the Lord spoken to Elijah. But his words to Jehonadab reveal a subtle motive: he wants others to see his zeal. The focus is drifting from God’s faithfulness to Jehu’s faithfulness, from God’s glory to Jehu’s heroism. This is a crucial turning point, because it shows how easy it is to move from serving God to serving God for our own glory.

Reflection Questions:

• Do you ever find yourself wanting people to “see your zeal” for God?

• Are there ways your service to God has become a platform for your reputation rather than His?

  
  

Prayer: Father, forgive me for the times I’ve wanted people to notice my obedience, my sacrifice, or my commitment. Strip away spiritual pride in me. May my life and service point to Your greatness alone, not mine. Amen.

Song of the Day: CityAlight - Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me (Live)