“Humble themselves under the mighty hand of God.”

- 1 Peter 5:6

Robert Smith Jr. often says, “for every New Testament doctrine, there is an Old Testament picture.” So it is with humility and the servant of God. In the Old Testament, God favors the lowly shepherd.

Think about Abraham and Lot: Lot, taking his place at the table Sodom, and Abraham, tending to sheep in the pastures of the hills. God chooses Abraham.

Think about Esau and Jacob: Esau, the duke of Edom, a great hunter and man for the ages, and Jacob, tending the flocks. God chooses Jacob.

Think about Moses and Pharaoh: Pharaoh, the king of the greatest empire of his day; and Moses, tending sheep on the backside of the desert. God chooses Moses.

Think about David and Saul: Saul, from the house of Kish of Benjamin, called to be king over Israel; and David, tending his father's sheep. God chooses David.

The Old Testament paints a vivid picture of greatness: a king, keeping the flock; a prince, feeding lambs. And God has not changed. When King Jesus arrives, God first tells the shepherds (Lk. 2). The news of the Great Shepherd comes first to the lowly shepherds because God never divorces humility from greatness.

So many of us seek to be great. Remember that no one in God's kingdom can sit high on a throne unless they are first found sitting low in a field. God never divorces humility from greatness.

Press on,
Pastor Harp

Use This in Your Personalized Scripture Journal

As you reflect on 1 Peter 5:6, take time to write through these prompts:

·       Where am I resisting God’s timing?

·       Do I trust that He will lift me up in due time?

·       What pride or impatience needs surrender?

·       Am I trying to promote myself instead of trusting Him?

·       What would humility look like in this season?

This verse reminds us that exaltation comes from God, not from striving. Humility is not weakness — it is trust. When we place ourselves under His authority, we free ourselves from the pressure of self-promotion.

Use this space to write a prayer asking God to help you release control and rest in His timing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 1 Peter 5:6 mean?
It teaches believers to live in humility and trust that God will raise them up at the right time.

What does “under God’s mighty hand” mean?
It symbolizes living under His authority, protection, and sovereign care.

Does humility mean passivity?
No. It means active trust rather than self-exaltation.

What does “in due time” imply?
It means God’s timing may differ from ours, but it is purposeful.

How can journaling strengthen humility?
Writing helps identify impatience and redirect trust toward God’s plan.