“Then Moses said to Korah, ‘Hear now, you sons of Levi, is it not enough for you that the God of Israel has separated you from the rest of the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to Himself, to do the service of the tabernacle of the LORD…” (Num 16:8-9)

Korah’s rebellion ends with the rebels being swallowed up by the earth, but it began with the phrase, “Is it not enough…?” Of all the Levites, Korah had the most significant job. The family of Korah had the privilege of carrying and caring for the most sacred elements of the temple – including the ark of the covenant itself.

These were honored men, with an honored position. They were privileged and had a holy role in the nation… but it wasn’t enough. Pr. 16:18 says “pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall.” That was true for the family of Korah in the most literal of senses.

Pride says, “It’s not enough”. Pride is the opposite of contentment; it is an unquenchable hunger searching for a meal – competitive and focused on self-interest, always seeking to be distinguished above others. Arrogance makes us entirely dependent on “more”. Convinced of our own greatness, we become disillusioned with a world that won’t recognize us for the wonder we are. If Korah had been meek enough to accept their role, would they not have been overjoyed at their privilege to carry the ark? If Korah had been humble, would they not have seen the blessings they had to be God’s chosen tribe?