READ: John 13:1-20.
Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another … Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time – 1 Pet. 5:5-6
Accepting authority, being submissive, and being humble are not easy or natural in our time. It goes against our own nature, our old self, which is as rebellious now as it was at the fall. And the spirit of our time, with its emphasis on autonomy and equal rights, is in line with that.
Peter points to a different way: authority comes from God. But with that comes humility for everyone because God opposes those who are proud, who refuse to be told what to do, and who place themselves above others. But at the same time, God gives His favor and grace to those who are humble and willing to serve and not rule over others (verse 5). It is precisely in the church that we must be humble with each other. Then the fellowship of the saints flourishes.
The Lord Jesus showed this humility during the foot washing of the disciples, who argued over who among them should get the first place (John 13). He then put on the humble garment of a slave (see also Phil. 2:7).
We must follow Christ’s example, and not become rebellious towards God Himself either. That challenge is especially there when you have to endure a lot of suffering. God may then take away opportunities for you to develop further, keeping you small and weak (2 Cor. 12:7-10). You will have to accept that. Such acceptance requires humility and submission under God’s hand. This same almighty, controlling hand also means that He has everything under control, so you know you are safe with Him.
At the same time, He gives you His firm promise that He will exalt you in due time. This certainly applies to the last day, but it can also be partially fulfilled on this earth. Let us keep our eyes on the Lord Who provides the solution.
Do you recognize the mighty hand of God in your life?
Singing: Ps. 27:6