THE SECRET OF DIVINE EXALTATION

THE SECRET OF DIVINE EXALTATION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Philippians 2:8–11

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

Description: Divine exaltation is God's supernatural lifting of a person who lives in humility, obedience, faithfulness, and total submission to His will.

INTRODUCTION

Everybody desires to be lifted, promoted, recognised, and celebrated. People want to move from obscurity to prominence, from rejection to acceptance, and from limitation to greater opportunities. However, not everyone understands the principles that attract divine exaltation. While the world teaches people to struggle for recognition, God's Kingdom teaches us to submit ourselves to Him and allow Him to determine our lifting.

Philippians 2:8–11 presents the greatest example of divine exaltation in the person of Jesus Christ. Though He was equal with God, He humbled Himself, took the form of a servant, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Because of His humility and obedience, God highly exalted Him and gave Him a name above every name. This passage reveals that divine exaltation is not accidental; it is connected to Kingdom principles.

Many people desire exaltation without humility, promotion without preparation, and honour without obedience. They want to occupy great positions without developing the character required to sustain those positions. But God's way is different. He lifts those who submit to His authority, remain faithful to His Word, serve with sincerity, and refuse to compromise their convictions. If you desire divine exaltation, you must understand and practise the secrets revealed in God's Word.

1. THE SECRET OF HUMILITY

Philippians 2:8 declares that Jesus humbled Himself. This is the first great secret of divine exaltation. Before God highly exalted Him, He willingly humbled Himself. He did not struggle for earthly recognition or use His position to intimidate others. He submitted Himself to the Father's purpose.

Humility is the attitude of a heart that recognises God's sovereignty and accepts His authority. It is not weakness or inferiority; it is spiritual maturity. A proud person wants to rise above everybody, but a humble person is willing to go low in obedience to God.

a. Humility Is a Command from God (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 anyone who desires to walk with God. We must deliberately reject pride, arrogance, self-importance, and the desire to take God's glory. When you humble yourself before God, you acknowledge that He is the source of your life, gifts, opportunities, and achievements.

b. Humility Attracts God's Grace (1 Peter 5:5)

God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. This means pride places a person in opposition to God, while humility positions that person to receive divine help.

You may have education, experience, connections, and abilities, but you still need God's grace. Never become so impressed with your achievements that you forget your dependence on Him.

c. Humility Makes You Teachable (Proverbs 9:9)

A wise person is willing to receive instruction and grow in understanding. Humility enables you to learn from correction, accept godly counsel, and acknowledge areas where improvement is necessary.

If you cannot receive correction, you may continue making avoidable mistakes. A teachable spirit is essential for anyone who desires to grow into greater responsibilities.

d. Humility Places You in God's Hands for Promotion (Luke 14:11)

Jesus taught that whoever exalts himself shall be abased, but whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.

Do not exalt yourself through manipulation, self-advertisement, or the destruction of others. Let your character, service, and faithfulness speak. God knows how to lift you at the right time.

Biblical Example: Joseph (Genesis 41:14-44)

Joseph did not exalt himself when he stood before Pharaoh. He acknowledged that the interpretation of dreams belonged to God. Even after years of suffering, he remained conscious of God's sovereignty. God lifted him from prison to the second position in Egypt. His life demonstrates that humility and dependence on God can precede extraordinary divine promotion.

2. THE SECRET OF COMPLETE OBEDIENCE

Philippians 2:8 says that Jesus became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. His obedience was complete, costly, and unconditional. He did not obey only when the Father's will was convenient. He submitted Himself fully, even when obedience required the greatest sacrifice.

Divine exaltation is connected to obedience because God entrusts greater responsibilities to people who are willing to follow His instructions. You cannot consistently reject God's Word and expect to enjoy the fullness of His purpose for your life.

a. Obedience Is Better Than Sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22)

God is more interested in obedience than religious activities that do not reflect a surrendered heart. Saul lost his kingdom because he disobeyed God's clear instruction while attempting to justify his actions.

Do not substitute church attendance, offerings, religious titles, or public activities for personal obedience. God wants your heart, your conduct, and your decisions to agree with His Word.

b. Obedience Must Be Total (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)

God's Word connects obedience with His promised blessings. He calls His people to listen diligently and observe His commandments.

Partial obedience is not the same as complete surrender. Do not obey God in public while disobeying Him in private. Let your faithfulness extend to every area of your life.

c. Obedience Must Continue When It Is Difficult (Hebrews 10:36)

The Bible teaches that we need patience after doing the will of God so that we may receive the promise.

Some instructions from God may challenge your comfort, expectations, and personal ambitions. Nevertheless, remain faithful. Do not abandon God's instruction simply because the process is difficult.

d. Obedience Positions You for Greater Responsibility (Luke 16:10)

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

Be faithful in your present assignment, whether it appears small or significant. The way you handle today's responsibility can prepare you for tomorrow's opportunity.

Biblical Example: Abraham (Genesis 22:1-18)

Abraham demonstrated remarkable obedience when God instructed him to offer Isaac. He was willing to obey because he trusted God's character and promises. God intervened and provided a ram. Abraham's obedience became a testimony of his faith and his willingness to surrender everything to God.

3. THE SECRET OF FAITHFUL SERVICE

Jesus took upon Himself the form of a servant (Philippians 2:7). He demonstrated that greatness in God's Kingdom is not about how many people serve you but how faithfully you serve others.

Many people desire leadership positions, but few are willing to embrace the responsibilities and sacrifices of leadership. Divine exaltation is not an invitation to selfish ambition. It is an opportunity to become a greater blessing to God's people.

a. Serve Without Seeking Human Applause (Matthew 6:1-4)

Jesus warned against performing acts of righteousness merely to be seen and praised by people. True service must flow from a sincere heart that desires to please God.

Do not allow the absence of public recognition to discourage you. Continue doing what is right even when nobody applauds your contribution. God sees secret faithfulness.

b. Serve Others with Love (Galatians 5:13)

The Bible calls believers to serve one another through love. Love makes service meaningful because it removes selfishness and places the welfare of others in our hearts.

Use your gifts, position, and resources to strengthen others. Your greatness should make people's lives better, not make them feel inferior.

c. Be Faithful in Your Assignment (Colossians 3:23-24)

Whatever you do, do it heartily as unto the Lord. This principle applies to ministry, family responsibilities, professional duties, and everyday service.

Do not perform your assignment carelessly because you believe it is insignificant. When you work as unto the Lord, even ordinary responsibilities become opportunities to demonstrate faithfulness.

d. Become a Builder of People (Ephesians 4:11-12)

God gives ministry gifts to equip the saints for the work of ministry and build up the body of Christ. Spiritual leadership should develop people rather than make them permanently dependent on the leader.

A truly influential servant raises others, encourages their gifts, and creates opportunities for them to fulfil their God-given potential.

Biblical Example: David (1 Samuel 16:11-13; 17:34-37)

Before David became king, he faithfully cared for his father's sheep. His service in an ordinary assignment prepared him for extraordinary responsibility. When the opportunity came to confront Goliath, he demonstrated the courage and faithfulness developed during his years as a shepherd. God lifted him from the field to the throne.

4. THE SECRET OF PATIENCE AND DIVINE TIMING

Divine exaltation operates according to God's timing. Jesus humbled Himself and fulfilled His assignment before the Father highly exalted Him. His exaltation teaches us that God's process must not be separated from God's promise.

Many people become discouraged because they compare their progress with the achievements of others. They become impatient, manipulate opportunities, and compromise their convictions. But divine promotion does not require ungodly competition. It requires faithfulness and confidence in God's timing.

a. God Has an Appointed Time for Your Lifting (1 Peter 5:6)

The Bible instructs believers to humble themselves under God's mighty hand so that He may exalt them in due time.

The expression "due time" reminds us that God has His own schedule. Do not allow delay to make you doubt His ability. Remain faithful while you wait for His appointed season.

b. Do Not Compare Your Journey with Others (Galatians 6:4-5)

Every believer has a personal responsibility and a unique assignment. Comparing your progress with another person's journey can produce jealousy, frustration, and unnecessary competition.

Celebrate the success of others without despising your own season. God is able to fulfil His purpose for your life without diminishing what He is doing in someone else's life.

c. Wait Without Compromising Your Convictions (Psalm 37:7)

The Psalmist encourages us to rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him. Waiting is not a licence for laziness; it is a season of continued trust, preparation, and obedience.

Do not steal, manipulate, deceive, or compromise your Christian values because you are desperate for promotion. What God gives you does not require you to abandon your integrity.

d. God's Timing Produces Lasting Results (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

The Bible says that God makes everything beautiful in His time. His timing takes into account what we cannot see or understand.

Sometimes, what appears to be a delay is a period of preparation. God may be developing your character, increasing your capacity, or arranging circumstances for the fulfilment of His purpose.

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

David was anointed king while Saul was still on the throne. He had opportunities to kill Saul and take the kingdom by force, but he refused to raise his hand against the Lord's anointed. He waited for God's timing. Eventually, he became king over Israel. His story teaches us not to force what God has promised to give.

5. THE SECRET OF GIVING GOD ALL THE GLORY

Philippians 2:9-11 reveals that God highly exalted Jesus and that every knee should bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. The ultimate purpose of exaltation is the glory of God the Father.

This is a vital principle: divine exaltation must never become an opportunity for personal pride. When God lifts you, your life should point people toward Him. Promotion without humility can become a spiritual danger, but promotion that produces greater devotion to God becomes a testimony of His grace.

a. Recognise God as the Source of Your Success (Deuteronomy 8:18)

God gives the power to get wealth and the ability to prosper. Whatever success you experience should remind you of His goodness.

Never allow your achievements to make you forget the One who gave you the strength, wisdom, and opportunity to succeed. A grateful heart protects you from pride.

b. Refuse to Take God's Glory (Isaiah 42:8)

God declares that He will not give His glory to another. Human beings may receive honour for their accomplishments, but worship and ultimate glory belong to God alone.

Do not turn your gifts into instruments of self-worship. Whether you are a preacher, leader, businessperson, or professional, use your influence to honour God.

c. Let Your Success Point Others to Christ (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 promotion should inspire others to recognise God's faithfulness. Let your conduct, compassion, integrity, and generosity make people appreciate the goodness of God.

d. Remain Humble After Promotion (Proverbs 27:2)

The Bible teaches that another person should praise you rather than your own mouth. Promotion should never make you arrogant or difficult to approach.

The higher God lifts you, the more careful you should become about your character. Continue to pray, study God's Word, receive counsel, and serve others faithfully.

Biblical Example: Nebuchadnezzar and Daniel (Daniel 2:46-49; 4:28-37)

Daniel consistently acknowledged God as the source of wisdom and revelation. Nebuchadnezzar, however, became proud and attributed the greatness of Babylon to his own power. God humbled him until he acknowledged the sovereignty of heaven. This contrast teaches us that every position and achievement must lead us to honour God rather than glorify ourselves.

CONCLUSION

The secret of divine exaltation is revealed in the life of Jesus Christ. He humbled Himself, became obedient unto death, served sacrificially, and fulfilled the Father's purpose. God then highly exalted Him and gave Him a name above every name. This is the Kingdom pattern: humility before honour, obedience before promotion, service before recognition, and faithfulness before reward. Divine exaltation is not achieved through pride, manipulation, or the destruction of others; it comes from God.

Therefore, humble yourself under God's mighty hand, obey His Word, serve faithfully, wait for His timing, and give Him all the glory. Do not force your way into positions God has not prepared for you. Do not compromise your convictions to gain temporary recognition. Let your life reflect the character of Christ, and trust God to fulfil His purpose. The God who lifted Jesus Christ is able to lift you according to His will and timing.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, deliver me from every form of pride, in Jesus name.

2. Lord, give me the humility of Jesus Christ, in Jesus name.

3. Father, help me to obey You completely, in Jesus name.

4. Lord, make me faithful in every assignment, in Jesus name.

5. Father, give me grace to wait for Your appointed time, in Jesus name.

6. Lord, deliver me from unhealthy competition and comparison, in Jesus name.

7. Father, let my service bring blessings to others, in Jesus name.

8. Lord, preserve my character when You lift me, in Jesus name.

9. Father, open the doors of divine promotion for 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 wisdom.

2. You shall receive grace to obey God completely.

3. Your faithfulness shall speak for you in due season.

4. You shall not miss your God-appointed season of lifting.

5. You shall not compromise your destiny for temporary recognition.

6. Every good assignment God has given you shall prosper.

7. You shall rise above jealousy, pride, and unhealthy competition.

8. Your influence shall become a blessing to many.

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

10. Your life shall continually bring glory to Jesus Christ.

FINAL CHARGE

Beloved, never forget that the pathway to divine exaltation is not the pathway of pride but the pathway of humility. Jesus went down in humility, obedience, and sacrifice before the Father highly exalted Him. If you desire God's lifting, embrace God's principles. Be humble when nobody is watching, faithful when nobody is appreciating you, obedient when it is difficult, and patient when the promise seems delayed.

Do not exalt yourself; let God exalt you. Do not fight for recognition; remain faithful to your assignment. Do not take God's glory; give Him all the praise. When you walk in the principles of the Kingdom, you position yourself for God's appointed lifting.