August 10

He Lowers to Raise

The LORD sends poverty and wealth; He humbles and He exalts. — 1 Sam 2:7 BSB

All the changes in my life come from the One who never changes. If I had grown wealthy, I would have seen His hand in it and praised Him; now, let me equally see His hand if I am made poor, and praise Him just as sincerely. When we face decline, it is from the Lord, so we can endure it patiently. When we rise, it is from the Lord, and we can receive it gratefully. In either case, the Lord has done it, and it is good.

It seems to be Jehovah’s way to humble those whom He plans to exalt and to strip those He intends to clothe. If this is His way, it must be the wisest and best way. If I am currently being brought low, I can rejoice, for I see in it the prelude to being lifted up. The more we are humbled by grace, the more we will be exalted in glory. That which brings us down now will be turned for our enrichment, and so we can welcome it.

O Lord, You have recently brought me low and made me aware of my insignificance and sin. It is not a pleasant experience, but I pray that You will make it a profitable one. Fit me to bear a greater weight of delight and usefulness, and when I am ready, grant it to me for Christ’s sake! Amen.