Why is it important to wait for God's timing to be "exalted"? Drawing Near to the Text “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you.” – 1 Peter 5:6 Understanding Exaltation in God’s Kingdom • Exaltation means being lifted to the place God ordains, whether influence, honor, or responsibility • Scripture presents it as God’s exclusive right: Psalm 75:6-7 • True exaltation always follows genuine humility, never self-promotion: Luke 14:11 Why God’s Timing Matters • God sees the end from the beginning; His timetable is perfect – Ecclesiastes 3:11 • Promotion too early can crush rather than bless; waiting protects both witness and character • Obedience in the waiting refines faith and deepens dependence – Isaiah 40:31 • God ties exaltation to His larger redemptive purposes, not merely personal advancement Benefits Found in the Wait • Greater grace: “He gives grace to the humble” – 1 Peter 5:5 • Spiritual maturity: perseverance produces proven character – Romans 5:3-4 • Clear testimony: when God lifts up, His glory is unmistakable – Galatians 6:9 • Lasting fruit: what He builds endures – Psalm 127:1 Living Illustrations • Joseph – humbled in slavery and prison, then raised to rule (Genesis 37–41) • David – anointed as king yet served Saul faithfully for years before the throne (1 Samuel 16–2 Samuel 5) • The Lord Jesus – “He humbled Himself… therefore God exalted Him” – Philippians 2:8-9 Practical Steps to Humble Readiness • Submit daily choices to God’s Word rather than personal ambition • Serve quietly where He places you, trusting His watchful eye – Colossians 3:23-24 • Cast every anxiety about timing onto Him – 1 Peter 5:7 • Celebrate the advancement of others, knowing God has a unique season for each The Certain Outcome • God cannot break His promise: “Humble yourselves… in due time He may exalt you.” • When the moment arrives, the elevation will be unmistakably His work, bringing Him praise and securing lasting joy for His people |
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