Day 226, Year 1

God’s Humility and Exaltation

“Who is like the LORD our God, Who dwells on high, Who humbles Himself to behold The things that are in the heavens and in the earth? He raises the poor out of the dust, And lifts the needy out of the ash heap.” (Psalm 113:5-7 NKJV)

“And before honor comes humility.” (Proverbs 15:33b NASB)

Verse 6 of the first passage clearly explains that it is not easy for ordinary people to feel the truthfulness and power of the Most High God. Most of the time, God is simply beholding the things on earth and seldom intervenes. This is His humbleness. Indeed, God is watching over what humans are doing nearly all the time. But sadly, His humility has been mistaken by some people as His non-existence. It is because, since He often acts inconspicuously, many people thus choose not to believe in Him. God’s humility tests whether people have a heart that longs for Him, knows Him, and trusts in Him. At least, according to verse 7, He will raise and lift the poor and needy in His time.

Similarly, believers who follow God’s humility tend to maintain a low profile in the face of worldly things. We only speak out and act when absolutely necessary or moved by God, since those who persistently seek Him are also humble and are naturally less focused on worldly affairs. Thus, we often tend to express less of our opinions. When we seek God, we usually share our thoughts with the Lord first, and we pray before doing anything or speaking to anyone. Likewise, the poor or needy are less involved in worldly affairs. Even if they clearly express their opinions, it is rare for them to be taken seriously by the world, and the world easily ignores them. Nevertheless, this in turn allows them to always draw closer to God and to be raised and lifted by Him.

According to today’s second verse, when discussing humility, honor should also be included. However, how long should one be humble before receiving His honor? Or how long does it take for God to raise and lift the poor and needy? Only God knows. Perhaps, when God’s people no longer care whether we are honored or not, or how we will be lifted or raised in the poor conditions, then we can accept His honor and be uplifted by Him. All we need is a heart of endurance and humility. I have witnessed some who were lifted by God, but soon became proud and finally stumbled and fell, which is so saddening.

Reflection questions:

1) Do you tend to keep a low profile in handling people or things? Why?

2) What would you do to avoid becoming proud if you were honored, promoted, or lifted by God?