Brought Low
Isaiah 26:4-5 KJV Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength: (5) For he bringeth down them that dwell on high; the lofty city, he layeth it low; he layeth it low, even to the ground; he bringeth it even to the dust.
It always amazes me to drive through wealthy neighborhoods and realize that each of those houses, though incredibly expensive is also occupied by someone of ‘high’ stature. We lived for a while in an area of California that was very close to one of the wealthiest communities in the nation with virtual estates completely covering hilltops. Parts of Austin likewise are full of homes that must have price tags in the millions of dollars. So many of those living there have apparently ‘arrived’, having obviously gained great success and wealth.
So many people living in these exotic homes and occupying positions of prominence and power would seem to be ‘above’ our level and apparently worthy of adoration, emulation and trust. While motivation and inspiration may be gained from their examples, placement of trust can never be on them, for every one of them will one day be brought low from their self made place of prominence. To trust in them and their strength is to trust in a failing and limited resource. Though leaders, governments, businessmen, and personalities may be exalted for the moment, their ’high’ is temporal, especially where their own trust is self rather than God centered. Better it would be to let all praise and adoration be given to the Highest and the only exalted and worthy King. He will reign forever and His glory will know no end.
While it may appear that some have risen to elevated and higher places, each one of us have actually been made to be kings and priest in Christ, (Rev. 1:6) and we’ve also been seated together with Him in heavenly places. (Eph. 2:6) Rather than look with worship and praise towards ungodly persons of failing strength, there is an opportunity in every moment to not only admire, but to trust in the One who is exalted far above all these other entities, and also lifts us up together with Him. Some day those celebrities will be brought low along with all those who have misplaced their trust in them, while all those who have given their hearts and service to the King will never regret it.
Philippians 2:10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
