GOD WILL EXALT THE HUMBLE

GOD WILL EXALT THE HUMBLE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Philippians 2:9-11

Key Verse: “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:” (Philippians 2:9, KJV).

Supporting Texts: James 4:6-10; 1 Peter 5:5-6; Matthew 23:12; Luke 14:11; Psalm 75:6-7; Proverbs 22:4.

Description: God is the ultimate source of promotion and honour, and He promises to lift those who walk in humility, submit to His authority, and remain faithful to His will.

INTRODUCTION

One of the greatest desires in the heart of humanity is to rise, succeed, make progress, and become significant. People desire promotion in their careers, recognition in their communities, advancement in ministry, and greater influence in society. However, the pursuit of greatness has led many people into pride, unhealthy competition, manipulation, and the destruction of others. God's Kingdom operates by a different principle: those who humble themselves before Him are the ones He promises to exalt.

Philippians 2:9-11 reveals the extraordinary exaltation of Jesus Christ. He humbled Himself, became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross, and God highly exalted Him. The passage begins with the word "Wherefore," connecting His exaltation to His humility and obedience. Jesus did not exalt Himself; the Father exalted Him. This teaches us that genuine exaltation comes from God and must be pursued through Kingdom principles.

Many people want to be lifted, but they are unwilling to go low in humility. They want honour without service, promotion without preparation, and recognition without responsibility. But God's Word declares that He resists the proud and gives grace to the humble. If you desire divine lifting, you must understand that humility is not a weakness; it is a spiritual principle that positions you for God's favour, grace, and exaltation.

1. HUMILITY IS GOD'S PATHWAY TO EXALTATION

Humility is one of the most important qualities God looks for in the life of a believer. It is the willingness to acknowledge God's authority, recognise our dependence on Him, and submit our lives to His will. A humble person does not consider himself the source of his success or the owner of his destiny.

In Philippians 2:9, Jesus was highly exalted after humbling Himself. This reveals a divine principle: the way to lasting honour is not self-promotion but submission to God. When you humble yourself before the Lord, you place your life in the hands of the One who has the power to lift you.

a. God Commands His Children to Be Humble (James 4:10)

The Bible says, "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up."

Humility is not optional for a believer who desires to walk in God's purpose. We must deliberately reject arrogance, pride, and the desire to dominate others. God wants us to recognise His sovereignty and submit to His authority.

b. God Gives Grace to the Humble (James 4:6)

The Scripture declares that God resists the proud but gives grace unto the humble. Grace is divine assistance that enables us to accomplish what human strength cannot achieve.

Pride makes a person depend excessively on personal ability, but humility makes room for God's help. Never become so confident in your achievements that you forget your need for divine grace.

c. Humility Requires Dependence on God (John 15:5)

Jesus said, "For without me ye can do nothing." This statement reminds us that our lives, abilities, opportunities, and achievements depend on God.

A humble person acknowledges God in every success. When you succeed, give Him the glory. When you face challenges, depend on His strength. Never allow your achievements to make you forget your Source.

d. Humility Removes the Struggle for Self-Exaltation (Matthew 23:12)

Jesus declared that whoever exalts himself shall be abased, while whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.

You do not need to destroy others to rise. You do not need to manipulate people to receive recognition. Your responsibility is to remain faithful and humble while allowing God to determine your place and season of lifting.

Biblical Example: John the Baptist (John 3:27-30)

When people compared the ministry of John the Baptist with that of Jesus, John did not become jealous or struggle for superiority. He declared, "He must increase, but I must decrease." His humility revealed that he understood his assignment. He was content to prepare the way for Christ rather than compete with Him. His example teaches us that humility enables us to fulfil our purpose without unnecessary rivalry.

2. GOD EXALTS THOSE WHO SERVE OTHERS

One of the clearest expressions of humility is servant-heartedness. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, took the form of a servant and demonstrated that greatness in God's Kingdom is not measured by how many people serve you but by how faithfully you serve others.

Many people desire positions of authority but are unwilling to embrace the responsibility of serving. They want to be celebrated without making sacrifices and recognised without making meaningful contributions. However, God's Kingdom teaches that true greatness is expressed through service.

a. Greatness Is Found in Serving Others (Mark 10:43-44)

Jesus taught that whoever desires to become great must be a servant, and whoever desires to be first must be the servant of all.

In God's Kingdom, leadership is not an opportunity to exploit people. It is an opportunity to bless, strengthen, encourage, and develop them. The greater your influence, the greater your responsibility to serve.

b. Serve with a Heart of Love (Galatians 5:13)

The Bible encourages believers to serve one another through love. Christian service must be motivated by genuine concern for others rather than selfish ambition.

When love controls your service, you will remain committed even when nobody appreciates your contribution. Let your service be an expression of your love for God and humanity.

c. Be Faithful in Little Responsibilities (Luke 16:10)

Jesus taught that whoever is faithful in that which is least will also be faithful in much. God observes how we handle the responsibilities already entrusted to us.

Do not despise small assignments. Be faithful in your present position, whether you are serving in a small department, managing a family responsibility, or handling a major ministry assignment. Faithfulness in little things prepares you for greater responsibilities.

d. Serve Without Seeking Human Recognition (Matthew 6:3-4)

Jesus taught that acts of giving and service should not be performed merely to receive public recognition. God sees what is done in secret.

Do not allow the desire for applause to become the motivation for your service. Continue doing what is right even when people fail to notice. God's approval is more valuable than temporary human praise.

Biblical Example: Jesus Washing His Disciples' Feet (John 13:3-17)

Jesus knew that the Father had given all things into His hands, yet He rose from supper, took a towel, and washed the feet of His disciples. He demonstrated that authority and humility can exist together. If the Master was willing to perform such a humble service, no believer should consider any legitimate act of service beneath his dignity.

3. GOD EXALTS THOSE WHO REMAIN FAITHFUL IN DIFFICULT SEASONS

Humility is not only demonstrated when things are going well. It is also revealed through our attitude during seasons of waiting, rejection, hardship, and opposition. A humble person does not become rebellious because of delay or bitter because others are promoted.

God often develops people in hidden places before bringing them into positions of greater influence. What appears to be a season of obscurity may actually be a season of preparation. Therefore, remain faithful wherever God has placed you.

a. Do Not Despise Your Season of Preparation (Zechariah 4:10)

The Scripture warns against despising the day of small things. God often begins His great works through small and seemingly insignificant beginnings.

Do not become discouraged because your present position is not where you desire to be. Use your present season to develop your character, deepen your spiritual life, improve your abilities, and prepare for greater opportunities.

b. Remain Faithful When Others Reject You (1 Peter 2:19-20)

The Bible teaches that there is value in patiently enduring suffering when one is conscious of God. Rejection and misunderstanding should not make you abandon your Christian character.

Do not allow the wrong treatment of people to turn you into a bitter or rebellious person. Continue to honour God even when people fail to appreciate your sincerity.

c. Do Not Force Your Own Promotion (Psalm 37:7)

The Psalmist encourages believers to rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him. This means we must not use ungodly methods to obtain what God has not yet given.

Do not manipulate, deceive, fight, or compromise your integrity to occupy a position. What God gives through His purpose does not require you to abandon His principles.

d. Continue Doing Good Without Giving Up (Galatians 6:9)

Paul encourages believers not to become weary in well-doing because they will reap in due season if they do not faint.

There may be seasons when your labour appears unnoticed and your efforts seem unrewarded. Do not give up. Continue to serve, pray, obey, and trust God. Your responsibility is to remain faithful while God determines the harvest.

Biblical Example: Joseph (Genesis 37; 39-41)

Joseph was betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, falsely accused, and imprisoned. Yet he maintained his integrity and remained faithful to God. He did not allow suffering to destroy his character. At God's appointed time, he was lifted from prison and placed in authority over Egypt. His life teaches us that the season of humiliation does not have to become the end of our story.

4. GOD EXALTS THOSE WHO TRUST HIS TIMING

Divine exaltation is connected to God's appointed time. First Peter 5:6 says, "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time."

The phrase "in due time" teaches us that God has a season for His purposes. He knows when we are ready, where we should be placed, and what responsibilities we should receive. Our duty is to remain humble under His mighty hand.

a. God Has the Power to Lift You (Psalm 75:6-7)

The Bible teaches that promotion does not come from the east, west, or south, but God is the Judge who puts down one and sets up another.

Human connections, qualifications, and opportunities may be useful, but God remains the ultimate source of promotion. Never make people your god or compromise your convictions to gain their approval.

b. Wait for God's Appointed Season (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

The Scripture says that God makes everything beautiful in His time. His timing is perfect, even when it does not agree with our personal expectations.

Do not become impatient because your prayers have not yet produced the result you desire. Waiting on God does not mean that He has forgotten you. Continue to trust Him and prepare yourself for what lies ahead.

c. Refuse to Compare Your Progress with Others (Galatians 6:4-5)

Every person has a responsibility before God. Constant comparison can produce jealousy, discouragement, and unhealthy competition.

Celebrate the blessings of others without despising your own journey. God is able to fulfil His purpose for your life without reducing the blessings of another person.

d. Trust God to Defend Your Destiny (Romans 8:31)

Paul declares that if God is for us, who can be against us? This gives believers confidence that human opposition cannot overturn God's ultimate purpose.

You do not need to fight every battle for recognition or defend yourself against every accusation. Walk in integrity, seek God's wisdom, and trust Him to guide and defend you according to His will.

Biblical Example: David (1 Samuel 24:1-12; 2 Samuel 5:1-5)

David was anointed king while Saul was still occupying the throne. Although he had opportunities to kill Saul and take the kingdom by force, he refused. He respected God's timing and would not use an ungodly method to obtain a God-given promise. Eventually, David became king over Israel. His life teaches us that we should never force what God has promised to give us.

5. GOD EXALTS THE HUMBLE FOR HIS OWN GLORY

Philippians 2:9-11 reveals that God highly exalted Jesus and gave Him a name above every name. Every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. The passage concludes by declaring that this exaltation is to the glory of God the Father.

This teaches us that divine exaltation is not an opportunity for personal pride. When God lifts a person, the purpose should be to make His goodness, power, and faithfulness known. The higher God takes you, the greater your responsibility to honour Him.

a. Give God the Glory for Every Achievement (Deuteronomy 8:17-18)

God warned Israel not to say in their hearts that their own power and strength had produced their prosperity. He reminded them that He was the One who gave them the ability to get wealth.

Never become proud because of your education, position, financial success, ministry growth, or achievements. Remember that every good gift comes from God. Let gratitude protect your heart from arrogance.

b. Use Your Position to Bless Others (Genesis 50:20)

Joseph used his position in Egypt to preserve lives during a severe famine. He did not use his authority merely to enrich himself or take revenge on those who had wronged him.

When God lifts you, become a blessing to others. Use your influence to encourage, support, protect, and strengthen people. Divine promotion should produce greater service.

c. Let Your Life Point People to God (Matthew 5:16)

Jesus taught that our light should shine before people so that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven.

Your testimony should make people appreciate the goodness of God. Let your conduct, generosity, integrity, and compassion demonstrate that your success is connected to God's grace.

d. Remain Humble After God Has Lifted You (Proverbs 27:2)

The Bible teaches that another person should praise you rather than your own mouth. This principle reminds us not to become self-centred when we receive honour.

Some people are humble while struggling but become proud after promotion. Do not allow success to change your character negatively. Remain prayerful, teachable, accountable, and committed to serving God.

Biblical Example: Daniel (Daniel 2:46-49; 6:1-5)

Daniel rose to positions of great influence in Babylon and Persia, but he never abandoned his devotion to God. When Nebuchadnezzar sought to honour him, Daniel acknowledged that the revelation came from God. Even when he became a high-ranking official, his integrity remained unquestionable. Daniel's life demonstrates that a person can occupy an exalted position and still remain humble and faithful to God.

CONCLUSION

God's Word makes it clear that He exalts the humble. Jesus Christ is the perfect example. He humbled Himself, became obedient unto death, and was highly exalted by the Father. His life demonstrates that the path to divine honour is not pride, manipulation, selfish ambition, or the destruction of others. It is humility, obedience, service, patience, and faithfulness. God is the One who promotes, establishes, and lifts people according to His perfect purpose.

Therefore, humble yourself under God's mighty hand. Do not struggle for recognition, do not envy the progress of others, and do not compromise your integrity to obtain promotion. Remain faithful in your present assignment, serve others with love, and trust God with your future. The same God who lifted Joseph from prison, David from the field, and Daniel from captivity is able to fulfil His purpose in your life. When you humble yourself before God, you place your life in the hands of the One who has the power to exalt you.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, deliver me from pride and arrogance, in Jesus name.

2. Lord, give me a humble and teachable heart, in Jesus name.

3. Father, help me to serve others with genuine love, in Jesus name.

4. Lord, give me grace to remain faithful in difficult seasons, in Jesus name.

5. Father, deliver me from unhealthy competition and jealousy, in Jesus name.

6. Lord, help me to wait patiently for Your appointed time, in Jesus name.

7. Father, let every good purpose for my life be fulfilled, in Jesus name.

8. Lord, open the doors of divine promotion for me, in Jesus name.

9. Father, preserve my humility when You lift me, in Jesus name.

10. Lord, let my life continually bring glory to Your name, in Jesus name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. You shall walk in humility and divine grace.

2. You shall not be controlled by pride or selfish ambition.

3. Your season of divine lifting shall come in God's appointed time.

4. You shall not miss the opportunities God has prepared for you.

5. Your faithfulness in hidden places shall produce lasting testimonies.

6. You shall rise above rejection, opposition, and discouragement.

7. Your gifts and abilities shall become blessings to many.

8. God shall establish you in the place He has prepared for you.

9. Your promotion shall not destroy your character or devotion to God.

10. Your life shall bring honour and glory to Jesus Christ.

FINAL CHARGE

Beloved, never confuse humility with weakness or waiting with failure. God knows how to lift those who surrender to Him. You do not need to push others down to rise, manipulate people to receive honour, or compromise your faith to obtain promotion. Stay humble, serve faithfully, obey God's Word, and remain steadfast in your assignment.

The world may celebrate self-promotion, but God's Kingdom celebrates humble submission. Remember the example of Jesus Christ: He humbled Himself, and God highly exalted Him. Humble yourself before God today, and trust Him to lift you in His appointed time.