Pride and self-exaltation can lead to destruction. Today, we’ll explore what the Bible teaches about humility and putting others first.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Exaltation Of Christ
What Does The Bible Say About Exalting Yourself
Proverbs 25:27
“It is not good to eat too much honey, nor is it honorable to search out matters that are too deep.”
This verse reminds us that it is not honorable to exalt oneself by trying to appear wise or knowledgeable in matters beyond our understanding. Humility and modesty are virtues that should be practiced.
Searching out matters that are too deep can lead to pride and arrogance, as we may start to believe that we possess superior wisdom. Instead, we should focus on seeking wisdom from God and acknowledging our limitations.
James 4:6
“But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'”
This verse emphasizes the importance of humility. God opposes those who exalt themselves in their pride and self-importance. However, God extends His grace and favor to those who remain humble and recognize their need for Him.
To exalt oneself is to set oneself up against God, but when we humbly submit to Him, acknowledging our dependence on His power and wisdom, He bestows His grace upon us.
Proverbs 18:12
“Before a downfall, the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.”
This verse highlights the destructive nature of pride. When a person exalts themselves with a haughty heart, thinking they are above others, they are on a path to downfall and disgrace.
On the contrary, when we embrace humility and recognize our need for God and others, we position ourselves for honor. True honor is found in humbly serving others and acknowledging that our accomplishments and talents come from God.
Luke 14:11
“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Jesus teaches us a valuable lesson about humility and exaltation. Those who exalt themselves, seeking recognition and praise from others, will ultimately be humbled and brought low.
However, when we choose to humble ourselves, willingly surrendering our pride and ego, God promises to exalt us in due time. Our focus should be on serving others and bringing glory to God, rather than seeking personal exaltation.
Matthew 23:12
“For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Jesus repeats the principle of humility and exaltation in this verse, emphasizing its importance. Those who exalt themselves, seeking positions of power and recognition, will ultimately be brought low and humbled.
On the other hand, those who choose humility and willingly place themselves under God’s authority and the service of others will be exalted, not in a worldly sense, but in the eyes of God.
Proverbs 16:18
“Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
This well-known verse warns us about the dangers of pride. When we exalt ourselves with a haughty spirit, thinking we are better than others and relying solely on our own strength, we are setting ourselves up for destruction.
Instead, we should cultivate a spirit of humility and dependence on God. By recognizing our need for His guidance and grace, we can avoid the pitfalls of pride and find lasting success in Him.
Isaiah 2:11
“The eyes of the arrogant will be humbled and human pride brought low; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day.”
This verse reminds us of the sovereignty and power of God. Human pride and arrogance will be brought low, and those who exalt themselves will be humbled. Only the Lord deserves to be exalted and acknowledged as the one true source of greatness.
Let us humble ourselves before God and recognize His authority, allowing Him to be exalted in every aspect of our lives.
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”
Paul encourages believers to practice humility in their relationships with others. Exalting oneself through selfish ambition and vain conceit is counterproductive to the unity and love that should be present in the body of Christ.
Instead, we are called to humbly consider the needs and interests of others, valuing them above ourselves. This attitude of humility fosters unity, fosters selfless service, and reflects the character of Christ.
Proverbs 27:2
“Let someone else praise you, and not your own mouth; an outsider, and not your own lips.”
This verse teaches us the importance of humility when it comes to receiving praise. It is not our place to exalt ourselves or boast about our own achievements. Instead, we should allow others to acknowledge and praise our efforts if they so choose.
Seeking self-promotion and constantly talking about our own accomplishments can be a sign of arrogance and self-centeredness. Let us humbly wait for recognition to come from others, giving glory to God for the gifts and abilities He has given us.
Psalm 18:27
“You save the humble but bring low those whose eyes are haughty.”
This psalm reminds us of God’s response to humility and pride. He uplifts and saves those who approach Him with a humble heart, while those who exalt themselves with haughty eyes will be brought low.
In our journey of faith, let us prioritize humility and dependence on God, recognizing that it is through His grace and mercy that we are saved and exalted in His kingdom.
Romans 12:3
“For by the grace given me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.”
Paul instructs believers to maintain a realistic and humble view of themselves. Exalting oneself beyond what is appropriate leads to pride and a distorted perception of reality.
Instead, with a sober judgment, we should recognize that every measure of faith and ability we have is a gift from God. Let us strive for humility and use our gifts and talents to glorify God and serve others.
1 Peter 5:6
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”
This verse echoes the teaching of Jesus that humility leads to exaltation. By humbling ourselves under God’s authority and submitting to His will, we position ourselves for His divine intervention and elevation in due time.
Instead of trying to exalt ourselves through self-promotion or seeking worldly recognition, let us trust in God’s timing and rely on His strength to lift us up according to His perfect plan.
Psalm 147:6
“The LORD sustains the humble but casts the wicked to the ground.”
This psalm verse highlights God’s response to humility and wickedness. God sustains and supports those who humbly rely on Him, acknowledging their need for His provision and guidance.
However, those who exalt themselves in wickedness and pride will ultimately be brought low by God’s righteous judgment. Let us therefore humble ourselves and find confidence in the Lord’s faithfulness and care.
Matthew 23:12
“For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Jesus reiterates the principle of humility and exaltation in this verse, emphasizing its importance. Those who exalt themselves, seeking positions of power and recognition, will ultimately be brought low and humbled.
On the other hand, those who choose humility and willingly place themselves under God’s authority and the service of others will be exalted, not in a worldly sense, but in the eyes of God.
James 4:10
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”
James reminds us of the importance of humility in our relationship with God. By humbling ourselves before Him, acknowledging His sovereignty and our dependence on Him, we open the way for Him to lift us up.
Proverbs 22:4
“Humility is the fear of the LORD; its wages are riches and honor and life.”
This verse highlights that humility is not only a virtue but also a key to receiving blessings from God. When we fear the Lord, we acknowledge His greatness and authority, leading us to humility.
As a result, God rewards us with spiritual riches, honor in His sight, and a meaningful life lived in alignment with His purposes.
Colossians 3:12
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”
This verse reminds us that as followers of Christ, humility is an essential attribute we should demonstrate in our lives. it is part of the character of those who have been chosen by God, set apart as His beloved children.
Let us clothe ourselves with humility, allowing it to shape our interactions with others, and reflecting the love and compassion of our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Peter 3:8
“Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.”
Peter encourages believers to cultivate humility in their relationships with one another. it is a vital ingredient for unity, love, and compassion within the body of Christ.
By practicing humility, we create an environment where understanding and support can flourish, allowing the love of Christ to be demonstrated through our actions.
1 Peter 5:5
“In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another because, ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'”
Peter instructs both younger and older believers to embrace humility in their relationships with one another. By submitting to elders and treating one another with humility, we create an environment of respect and unity.
God’s favor rests upon those who humble themselves, while pride invites His opposition. Let us therefore embrace humility in all our interactions, seeking to honor and serve one another.
Ephesians 4:2
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
Paul emphasizes the importance of humility in maintaining unity and harmony within the body of Christ. True humility is characterized by gentleness, patience, and bearing with one another in love.
As we strive to live out these qualities, we contribute to the growth and maturity of the church, reflecting the character of Christ and building strong relationships with our fellow believers.
Micah 6:8
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
In this verse, the prophet Micah shares what the Lord requires of His people. Alongside justice and mercy, humility is emphasized as an essential aspect of our walk with God.
Walking humbly with God involves recognizing our dependence on Him, aligning our will with His, and surrendering our pride and self-centeredness. Let us embrace the call to humility, following in the footsteps of our Lord.
Psalm 25:9
“He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.”
God is gracious to guide those who approach Him with humility. As we humble ourselves before Him, acknowledging our need for guidance and wisdom, He faithfully leads us in righteousness and imparts His wisdom.
Let us, therefore, cultivate humility, willingly surrendering our own understanding and seeking the direction of the Lord in all areas of our lives.