What does "exalts himself will be humbled" teach about pride's consequences? Setting the Scene “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11) What Pride Looks Like • Pride is self-promotion—placing myself at the center, seeking recognition, control, or applause. • It is the opposite of childlike trust; it insists, “I deserve.” • Scripture treats pride not as a harmless attitude but as rebellion against God’s rightful supremacy (Isaiah 2:11). The Built-In Consequence • “Will be humbled” is not a suggestion but a certainty. • God Himself actively resists pride: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6) • Whether in this life or at final judgment, the proud lose stature, influence, and ultimately fellowship with God. Illustrations the Bible Gives • Lucifer: “How you have fallen from heaven… You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend…’” (Isaiah 14:12-15) —self-exaltation ends in expulsion. • Nebuchadnezzar: exalted his achievements, then ate grass until he “learned that the Most High rules…” (Daniel 4:30-37). • Haman: built gallows for Mordecai, was hanged on them himself (Esther 7:10). • Pharisee in the temple: left unjustified; the tax collector was lifted up (Luke 18:11-14). The Pattern Summarized 1. Self-exaltation 2. Divine opposition 3. Public or private humbling 4. Opportunity for repentance—or final ruin Complementary Passages • “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18) • “A man's pride will bring him low, but a humble spirit will obtain honor.” (Proverbs 29:23) These verses echo the principle: pride sows the seeds of its own downfall. Humility’s Reward • God delights to lift those who take the lowest place (Luke 14:10). • “Whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:4) • Ultimate example: Christ “emptied Himself… Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place.” (Philippians 2:7-9) Practical Takeaways • Invite the Spirit to expose hidden arrogance before God does it publicly. • Choose the servant role—credit God for every success, seek others’ good first. • Remember: every promotion of self crowds out reliance on Christ; every step down makes room for His elevation. The phrase “exalts himself will be humbled” stands as a loving warning: pride guarantees demotion, but humility positions us for God’s gracious lift. |
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