A New Low

In Proverbs 29:23, we read a rather interesting truth: "Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honor."  Did you notice that while pride results in a negative (low), the negative (lowly) results in a positive (honor).  It would seem that there is a new low in play here.

Generally, we consider low as being in a losing position position, such as in "low on the totem pole" or "low on cash."  And the Bible uses it in that same way as in the first half of the verse above, which suggests a reduction in position.

However, when low is moved to the spiritual realm or application as in the second half of 29:23 (lowly in spirit), it takes on a new meaning where it causes an elevation in status or gain.

Jesus would echo the same "newness" of the word in Matthew 5:3 in saying, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."  I can't think of how one becomes more elevated than that, can you?

So, how is the new low different from the low we've all come to know and not love so much?  It is different in propulsion - are you brought low by the hand of God or did you lower yourself in deference to God.  One is being humbled and the other is humility.  It is a matter of the heart and spirit within.  

Listen to the words of Jesus: "For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted" (Matt 23:12).  So tell me, are you ready to reach a new low?

Jus' Askn.