Humility & Exaltation
In Matthew 23:12 (ESV), Jesus says, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” I love how with just a few words, Jesus can turn everything upside down.
I consider this morning that Jesus is not just a wise teacher. He is the way, the truth, and the life. What I mean is that he is not saying this based on some intelligent observation but speaking the very words of God to our souls. These words are not just a motto. They are revelation knowledge about how the Kingdom of God operates. They are a promise from God and a warning to those who live in rebellion.
I also consider that the meaning of the words humble and exalt are not the same on both sides of the sentence. When we elevate ourselves, we do so in an earthly manner. Our exaltation comes in the form of wealth, power, and fame to varying degrees. Most often, our personal exaltation comes at the expense of others. It is a driving force behind increased injustice, abuse, and immorality. Therefore, the humbling that follows is disgraceful. This humiliation manifests in the form of the exposure of wrongs and the stripping away of power and wealth.
On the other hand, when Jesus talks about humbling ourselves, he is talking about an attitude of sacrificial love. He modeled this humility on the cross by emptying himself so that he could justify us with his blood. What followed that extravagant act of humility was exaltation, but not in the sense that we seek in the flesh. His exaltation was glorification. God seated him at his right hand and gave him the name above all names.
Of course, no matter how humble we get, we will not rise above God, but the kingdom principle is that God uses our surrender and suffering to bring glory.
In the act of humbling ourselves before God and others, we invite the Holy Spirit to strip away everything corrupt and selfish inside of us. The flesh desires a perverted form of exaltation, but humility refines our souls so that we are ready for the glorification that comes from God. When God exalts the righteous, the whole world is blessed and prospers.
The invitation today is to examine our hearts with the help of the Holy Spirit to see if there is anything fighting humility. Surrender is freedom.
To get the Daily Invitation sent to you every day, click this link or text “Daily” to +1 (779) 237-3914.
