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The lyrics of "Lifted High" echo a profound and powerful truth embedded in the book of James, specifically James 4:7 and James 4:10. These scriptures state:
"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." (James 4:7, KJV)
"Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up." (James 4:10, KJV)
Let us look at what the Word of God says. This passage offers a divine strategy for believers to achieve victory over the adversary and to experience the exaltation that comes from the Lord.
The epistle of James, written by James, the brother of Jesus, addresses Jewish Christians who were dispersed among the nations. These believers faced trials, persecution, and the challenge of maintaining a pure faith in a world steeped in sin and division. James, a prominent leader in the early church, thought it imperative to guide these believers on how to live a faith that is not only genuine but also active and practical.
At the heart of his message is the call to godly living through submission, humility, and resistance against evil. The backdrop is an admonishment to shed worldly desires, envy, and strife, urging instead to draw near to God with sincere hearts.
### Submit (Greek: ὑποτάσσω - hypotassō)
The Greek term "hypotassō" translates to "submit" in English. It implies a voluntary arrangement of oneself under God's authority, much like a soldier under the command of a leader. This submission is not passive but involves an active decision to align one's will with God's purpose and direction.
### Resist (Greek: ἀνθίστημι - anthistēmi)
The term "anthistēmi" means "to stand against" or "oppose." It paints the picture of a firm stance, one that withstands the devil's schemes and temptations. This is a deliberate action, an exercise of spiritual authority granted to the believer by God.
These words remind us that the call to submit and resist is both an act of devotion and an act of warfare, requiring the believer's active participation.
### Submission to God
The command to "submit yourselves therefore to God" is foundational. It places God at the center of one's life, renouncing pride and rebellion, two root sins that separate humanity from God. Submission involves obedience, a readiness to listen, and a willingness to act according to God's will. This is paralleled in Romans 12:1, which calls believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.
### Resisting the Devil
The promise that the devil will flee is contingent upon our resistance. This echoes the Biblical principle found in Ephesians 6:11, where believers are exhorted to put on the full armor of God to stand against the devil's schemes. Resistance implies spiritual warfare, a steadfastness that comes through faith, prayer, and the Word of God—a potent trio in defeating the enemy's plans.
### Humble Yourselves
To "humble yourselves before the Lord" is to recognize one's own insufficiency and God's all-sufficiency. Humility is not self-deprecation but an acknowledgment that all we have and are comes from God. This is the attitude extolled in Philippians 2:8, where Jesus, though in the form of God, humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death on a cross. Such humility leads to exaltation, as James promises: "He shall lift you up."
First, we must Consciously Submit to God's Authority. Begin each day by acknowledging God's sovereignty. Pray, "Lord, I submit my plans, my will, my desires to You. Lead me according to Your purpose."
Second, we must Actively Resist the Devil. Equip yourself with the Word of God. Memorize scriptures that reinforce your position in Christ. When faced with temptation, speak aloud these truths, declaring your authority in Christ.
Third, we must Cultivate a Spirit of Humility. Regularly examine your heart for pride. Enter God's presence with a heart of worship and confession, understanding that humility opens the way for God's grace.
Fourth, we must Expect God's Uplifting. Trust that as we humble ourselves, God will indeed lift us high. Rest in His timing and His way, acknowledging His faithfulness.
Proclamation:
"In the name of Jesus, I submit myself fully to God. I stand firm and resist the devil, knowing he must flee. I humble myself before the Lord and receive His promise of exaltation. By His grace, I am lifted high above all powers and principalities. Amen."
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word, which equips us for victory. Teach me to submit to Your will and resist the enemy's tactics with faith and courage. Grant me a spirit of humility, that Your exaltation may manifest in my life. Strengthen me with Your presence, and may Your Name be glorified in all I do. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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