Bible Reading
1 Peter 5:1–7
Memory Verse
1 Peter 5:6 (KJV)
“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.”
The strength of Christian ministry comes from humility. Many times, people don’t really understand the biblical meaning of humility. Humbling yourself actually means bringing yourself under the authority of Scripture. We decide that the instructions in the Bible will have the final authority in our lives.
That being said, in this portion of Scripture, Peter gives different members of the Body of Christ different instructions concerning their roles and attitudes—instructions by which God will lift them up and ultimately reward them in the life to come. To the elders, he instructs them to wholeheartedly oversee the welfare of the people of God. He points out that it should never be done for personal gain. In my own words, “Don’t see the people of God as a source of personal gain.” Elders must ensure that their lives are worthy of emulation.
Likewise, Peter admonishes younger people to submit themselves to church authority by humbling themselves to God. We see that without first submitting ourselves to God’s Word, we can’t truly be humble. It is important that we all remember that it is in submitting ourselves to God’s Word that we experience His grace and ultimately receive eternal rewards—not in being self-willed.
True humility is not thinking less of ourselves or appearing modest before others. It is choosing to place God’s Word above our own desires, opinions, and will. When Scripture has the final authority in our lives, we position ourselves to experience God’s grace and allow Him to exalt us in His time.
Reflection Questions
Does God’s Word have the final authority in my life, even when it conflicts with what I want to do?
If I am in a position of leadership, am I serving God’s people wholeheartedly, or am I looking for personal gain?
Are there areas of my life where I am being self-willed rather than submitting myself to God’s instructions?