“For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Recognition is one of the most common things that we found ourselves chasing after in our lives. We seek recognition for the things we do, the things we say, the things we wear, and the things we own. We chase after this recognition thinking that it is going to fill us up, even though we are disappointed by it every time, only to crave more.
What if there was a simpler way to fill this desire? What if it was so simple that it required doing and saying quite literally nothing? Enter humility. Humility is defined as having “a modest view of one’s own importance”. Essentially, humility is understanding and accepting that you are not ‘all that’. Biblically, this means understanding that you are a broken sinner in desperate need of the Savior’s love, and that nothing else can fill you the way that can. Humble people are servants. They are behind the scenes workers, they are encouragers, helpers, and motivators. People who are humble are not afraid to give love and recognition to others because they are secure in themselves, and they know who gives them the fullest recognition.
God is pretty clear about what He does with arrogant and humble people and Jesus is the ultimate example of humility.
“but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men”
Jesus humbled Himself, made Himself a servant, and ultimately, God lifted Him to the highest tier, ascended Him into Heaven, and seated Him on His throne. God doesn’t want us to not be recognized. God doesn’t want us to be shelled up, shy, nervous people. God wants us to be exalted, lifted, but He wants us to do it in the right way. God wants our obedience and our servanthood before He lifts us to a higher level. God cannot give attention to attention seekers. God gives attention and recognition to those who know how to remain humble, and give the glory to God, not themselves.
When we learn how to serve and love others, and give the attention to the Lord, He will lift us to levels that we never expected.