“One’s pride will bring him low, but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor”.

- Proverbs 29:23

The ocean is one of the most potent forces in all the world, giving birth to volcanoes, tsunamis, and hurricanes. Ironically, the ocean gains its power because of its position— all other bodies of water flow into the ocean because the ocean sits lower than they do. Its lowliness gives the ocean its power.

So it is with the person of God. If you stay high, God will bring you low, but if you stay low, God will exalt you (Matt. 2312; Lk. 14:11; 18:14; Ja. 4:6; 1 Pt. 5:6) As G. Campbell Morgan put it, “All God's thrones are reached by going downstairs.”

Why is God moved to exalt the humble? God is quick to elevate the humble because the humble look most like His Son, King Jesus. “And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name...” (Phil. 2:8-9).

King Jesus embodied humility. Leaving His heavenly throne, He walked “downstairs,” taking on the form of a man, that He might serve and save man. King Jesus defines humility.

Do you have His spirit of humility in you? Is your first inclination self or others? Do you seek to serve or be served? Remember, like water to an ocean, God's grace flows downhill. Those who insist on living high and never bending low will never know the goodness and power of God.

Press on,
Pastor Harp

Use This in Your Personalized Scripture Journal

As you reflect on Proverbs 29:23, take time to write through these prompts:

·       Where might pride be influencing my decisions?

·       Do I seek recognition more than faithfulness?

·       How do I respond to correction?

·       What area of my life needs greater humility?

·       What would it look like to pursue honor God’s way?

Pride elevates self but ultimately leads to downfall. Humility may seem quiet and unseen, yet it leads to lasting honor. God’s economy is different from the world’s. What He exalts is often what the world overlooks.

Use this space to write a prayer asking God to guard your heart against pride and cultivate humility that honors Him.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Proverbs 29:23 mean?
It teaches that pride eventually leads to humiliation, while humility leads to honor.

Why is pride spiritually dangerous?
Because it distances us from dependence on God and wisdom.

What kind of honor does humility bring?
Honor that comes from God’s approval rather than human applause.

How can I recognize pride in my life?
By examining motives, defensiveness, and desire for recognition.

How can journaling help reduce pride?
Writing honestly exposes hidden motives and invites correction.