◄ What Does 1 Peter 5:6 Mean? ►

Having given instructions to the older believers, Peter turns his attention to advising to the younger generation. He instructs them to be subject to those that are older in the faith, and to "clothe yourselves with humility toward one another." These younger believers are to develop a teachable spirit and an attitude that demonstrates respect towards those that have matured in the Lord. Training in righteousness, the development of a spirit of humility, and growing in grace takes time - more time - and much time to develop.

Humility contributes to fellowship where peace and graciousness prevails, while pride is a destructive attitude that can disrupt the communion of believers and fosters a discourteous attitude, causing division among brethren. This should not be. But humility is not only a great grace that needs to be developed in those that are young in years or young in the faith, humility is a fruit of the Spirit that should be the goal of all Christian men and women, however mature in the faith they have become, or however young they are in the Christian life, for God gives grace to the humble as well as wisdom, faith, understanding, and holiness, but He resists and opposes all those that are proud.

A spirit of humility is pleasing to the Father, for it is the spirit that is so representative of the Lord Jesus Christ. Christ was a man that humbled Himself, in the power of the Holy Spirit, under the mighty hand of the Father, and at the proper time He was lifted up; first on the Cross, and then to His Father's throne, in heavenly places.

In like manner, those that meekly take up their cross, in the power of the Spirit, and humble themselves under the mighty hand of God, will grow in grace and in a knowledge of the Lord Jesus so that at the proper time, God will raise them up in to newness of life.

And so, let us grow in grace in this world, and then in the world to come, we will be raised up with Christ on His throne.

Heavenly Father, develop in me humility of heart and graciousness of spirit. Thank You for the example of Christ's humility. May I become more and more like Him in the days that lie ahead. I pray this in Jesus' name, AMEN.