Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. Matthew 23:12 WEB
It is the sin of pride that caused the rebellion and downfall of Satan. We read of this in Isaiah 14:14-15 which says, “I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit. KJV” Pride and rebellion to God leads to destruction for men too. But humility leads to elevation. God lifts up whoever humbles himself.
Jesus came in the flesh to live a humble life of service. Whoever humbles himself follows the example of Christ. In return for his humble supplication, God exalted Jesus as our Savior glorified God. Jesus not only lived a life of humility, but he also encouraged the same through teachings like the one from Matthew 23:12 that promises the exaltation of whoever humbles himself.
When asked who is greatest in the kingdom of heaven, Christ responded in Matthew 18:3-4 by calling a young child to him and saying, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. WEB”
The Last Shall Be First and the First Last
The words of Christ concerning “whoever humbles himself” direct the believer to live a life of service to God and benefit to others. His warning against exalting oneself prohibits pride and self-promotion in the lives of believers. As Jesus says in Matthew 20:16, “So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen. KJV”
Unlike the rulers of this world who require praise and high status, Jesus gave his life in service to God and man. In turn, he received praise for living a humble life. God exalted Christ rather than Christ exalting himself. Unlike worldly leaders who fall from grace, Christ gave himself in humble service to God and is still revered today.
Proverbs 3:33-34 warns against the iniquity of pride and the blessings of a humble life saying, “The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous. He mocks proud mockers but shows favor to the humble and oppressed. NIV” James 4:10 reinforces this understanding as it reads, “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he will exalt you. WEB”
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the example of humility in Jesus Christ. I humble myself before you. Forgive my transgressions. Give me wisdom to live according to your word and will. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Now I See
