LUKE 1:52-53
52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
To Ponder
If you have been following the daily verses the last few days you will notice a common theme. God lifts up/raises/exalts the humble. Today as I read this reading the question that I had was: Why does God lift up the humble?
Two things stood out to me that are worth pondering.
First, God shows humility. Think about Jesus for a moment. God who created the universe at all that exists, sends his son Jesus, born as a child in a manger. The King of the universe becomes human shows the heart of a servant. There is something about those who are humble who mirror God’s own character and heart. That mirror Jesus himself. God is seen clearly and reveals himself in those who are humble, rather than those who are proud and arrogant.
Secondly, those who are humble recognize reality: we are created beings, totally dependent on God's grace. We didn't make ourselves, save ourselves, or gift ourselves with abilities. Humility simply acknowledges what is true—that apart from God, we can do nothing. God lifts up those who understand this because, unlike those who are like the proud rulers in our reading today, they are the ones in a position to receive his grace in their hearts.
Prayer
Gracious Father, Thank you for showing us what true humility looks like through Jesus, who came not with pride or power, but with the heart of a servant. Teach us to walk in humility, remembering that every gift, every breath, and every ability comes from you alone. Keep us dependent on your grace and open to your leading, so that in our weakness your strength may be seen. Lift us up, not for our own glory, but that our lives might reflect your character and draw others closer to You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Today’s devotion written by Nich Kitchen, LifeWay Epping