Devotions this week are based on Joy in the Journey Week 4: Humility! (WATCH Full Sunday message)
Jesus said, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (Matthew 23:12).
This sounds contrary to logic. To go up, one must lower himself?
Jesus not only taught this truth to the religious leaders the week of his death, but he epitomized this teaching by going to the cross. Outside a few of his followers, Jesus really didn’t have a following at the cross. His death left some feeling afraid and confused, while leaving others satisfied they didn’t have to deal with Jesus anymore.
But the history of Jesus didn’t stop with a funeral at the tomb of Joseph of Arimathea, rather three days later the one most thought was dead, God raised to life. More than that, he welcomed Jesus back into heaven.
Philippians 2:9–10 – “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.”
People had rejected him, mocked him, and dismissed him as a lunatic. He was treated with disdain and killed as a horrible criminal. But, there’s a moment coming—one that no one will miss. It won’t be a whisper or a subtle headline. On that day, every knee—whether bowed in worship or trembling in judgment—will bend before Him.
The one who was humiliated for our sake is now elevated to the highest place. Every angel in heaven, every demon under the earth, and every person on earth will have to acknowledge the unchangeable truth: Jesus Christ is Lord.
For those who have rejected Him, this truth is a harsh reality. The one they ignored, mocked, or dismissed will be the one before whom they fall. For those that have believed in him, this truth is a glorious reality. The one that was mocked and crucified will welcome them into heaven.
This passage is not only a warning; it is an invitation.
Because Jesus died and rose, those who trust in Him bow in worship, not in fear. His name is not just high and exalted—it is near and saving. Scripture says, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 10:13). His exalted name is our hope and our peace.
To bow now is to fall into the arms of a Savior who stooped to serve us, suffer for us and to save us. This is the heart of the gospel: The One who has the highest name is the One who took our place.
So how do we live in light of this truth?
- Bow in Worship: Make exalting the name of Jesus the focus of your life. Worship Him regularly, not just in song, but in your decisions, your words, your relationships. Let His name shape your identity.
- Bow in Obedience: Recognize that following Christ means laying down your own name. Our life becomes guided by the direction of Christ, not our own self-glory.
- Bow in Witness: We live in a world filled with people who don’t yet know Jesus. We honor the name of Jesus by sharing his name with others. Hold out the gospel with love and truth!
- Bow in Hope: If you feel discouraged by how broken the world is, remember, Christ is already exalted. The future is sure. Justice will be done. Knees will bow. And in Him, we wait with hope.
Apply: What does it look like for you today to bow in worship and exalt the name of Jesus?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are exalted to the highest place. Your name is above every name. Help me to bow today in humility and joy, and live to make Your name great in my words, my thoughts, and my actions. Amen.