The concept of exaltation, or being lifted up to a position of honor and prominence, is a recurring theme in the Bible. It underscores the belief that true elevation and honor come not from human effort or ambition, but from God Himself. This principle is woven throughout Scripture, emphasizing humility, divine sovereignty, and the ultimate authority of God in the affairs of humanity.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible consistently teaches that God is the source of exaltation. In the Old Testament, the book of Psalms frequently highlights this truth. Psalm 75:6-7 states, "For exaltation comes neither from east nor west, nor out of the desert, but it is God who judges; He brings one down and exalts another." This passage clearly attributes the power to elevate individuals to God alone, dismissing any notion that human geography or effort can determine one's rise to prominence.

In the New Testament, the theme continues with the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus Himself taught about humility and exaltation in the context of the Kingdom of God. In Matthew 23:12 , He declares, "For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." This teaching underscores the paradoxical nature of God's kingdom, where the path to true greatness is through humility and servanthood.

Examples of Divine Exaltation

Throughout the Bible, there are numerous examples of individuals who were exalted by God. Joseph, the son of Jacob, is a prime example. Despite being sold into slavery and unjustly imprisoned, Joseph was eventually elevated to a position of great authority in Egypt. His account, found in Genesis 37-50, illustrates how God can orchestrate circumstances to exalt those who remain faithful and humble.

Another notable example is King David. Chosen by God from humble beginnings as a shepherd boy, David was anointed as king over Israel. His life, chronicled in the books of Samuel, demonstrates how God exalts those who are after His own heart, despite their imperfections and challenges.

In the New Testament, the apostle Paul speaks of Jesus Christ as the ultimate example of divine exaltation. In Philippians 2:9-11 , Paul writes, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Jesus' exaltation is the result of His obedience and humility, culminating in His sacrificial death and victorious resurrection.

The Role of Humility

A key aspect of the biblical teaching on exaltation is the role of humility. Scripture consistently links humility with divine exaltation. Proverbs 22:4 states, "The rewards of humility and the fear of the LORD are wealth and honor and life." This verse highlights the blessings that accompany a humble disposition and reverence for God.

The apostle Peter echoes this sentiment in 1 Peter 5:6 , where he advises believers, "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you." This exhortation encourages Christians to trust in God's timing and sovereignty, recognizing that exaltation is a divine prerogative.

God's Sovereignty and Human Responsibility

While God is the ultimate source of exaltation, human responsibility plays a role in aligning with His purposes. The Bible encourages believers to cultivate humility, faithfulness, and obedience as they await God's timing for exaltation. James 4:10 instructs, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you." This verse encapsulates the balance between divine sovereignty and human responsibility, urging believers to adopt a posture of humility and trust in God's plan.

Conclusion

The biblical teaching that exaltation comes from God serves as a reminder of His sovereignty and the importance of humility. Throughout Scripture, God is depicted as the one who lifts up the humble and brings down the proud, demonstrating His authority over human affairs. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's timing and to cultivate a heart of humility, knowing that true exaltation is a gift from the Almighty.