SPRINGFIELD, MO. — Recently I awakened with Luke 14:11 on my mind: "Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted" (NIV). Although I’ve read these words of Jesus many times, this particular morning they brought added meaning and conviction.

The Lord spoke to my heart that some have twisted the meaning of the verse to say, "Humble yourself so you can be exalted." Or, "If you want to be exalted, become humble." Some have clothed themselves in false humility, hoping to earn an earthly promotion. They’re in pursuit of exaltation rather than humility. And their quest is to climb the ladder of recognition and success, rather than to emulate Christ.

Exaltation and honor are aftereffects of humility, but they shouldn’t be our objective. The person walking in Christlike humility already has rewards that are promised in Scripture:

• "He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way" (Psalm 25:9).

• "He crowns the humble with salvation" (Psalm 149:4).

• "With humility comes wisdom" (Proverbs 11:2).

First Peter 5:5,6 says, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time." The Lord simply asks that we submit our lives to His care, that we submit our future to His timing, and that we direct the glory and accolades to Him.

Then we can know we are pleasing in His sight. "This is the one I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at my word" (Isaiah 66:2).

This issue of the Pentecostal Evangel is the start of a three-issue emphasis on the family. As you read these special editions, pray that young people will reject the world’s idols and empty promises and follow Jesus Christ. And ask the Lord to help you live in such a way that your children will learn the merits of humility and servanthood by following you.

— Hal Donaldson