The word ‘exalt’ appears frequently in the Bible, carrying deep spiritual significance. It is often associated with lifting up, glorifying, and honoring God, as well as God’s elevation of His people. Understanding the biblical meaning of exaltation helps believers grasp their relationship with God and His divine authority.
This topic explores the meaning of exalt in the Bible, its different contexts, key verses, and how it applies to Christian life today.
What Does Exalt Mean in the Bible?
Definition of Exalt
The word ‘exalt’ comes from the Latin exaltare, meaning ‘to lift up’ or ‘raise high.’ In biblical terms, exaltation refers to the act of lifting something or someone to a higher position, often in a spiritual or divine sense.
There are two primary ways exaltation is used in the Bible:
- Exalting God – Giving Him the highest honor, praise, and worship.
- God Exalting People – Raising up those who are humble and faithful.
Exalting God in the Bible
1. Exalting God Through Worship
The Bible commands believers to exalt God above all things, recognizing His greatness and sovereignty.
- ‘Exalt the Lord our God and worship at His footstool; He is holy.’ (Psalm 99:5)
- ‘Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let Your glory be over all the earth.’ (Psalm 57:5)
Exalting God means giving Him first place in our hearts, worshiping Him through prayer, songs, and obedience.
2. God is Exalted Above All
God’s exaltation is absolute and eternal. He is the highest authority, reigning over heaven and earth.
- ‘The Lord is exalted over all the nations, His glory above the heavens.’ (Psalm 113:4)
- ‘For You, Lord, are the Most High over all the earth; You are exalted far above all gods.’ (Psalm 97:9)
No power or force can surpass God’s majesty. His exaltation reminds believers of His supreme control and divine power.
God Exalting People in the Bible
1. God Lifts the Humble
One of the most profound biblical teachings is that God exalts the humble and brings down the proud.
- ‘Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.’ (James 4:10)
- ‘For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.’ (Matthew 23:12)
This principle teaches that true greatness comes from humility, not self-promotion.
2. Exaltation Through Obedience
God exalts those who follow His will. Faithful servants receive honor from God.
- ‘He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; He seats them with princes.’ (1 Samuel 2:8)
- ‘Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’ (Matthew 18:4)
When people seek God with a pure heart, He blesses and lifts them up in due time.
3. The Ultimate Exaltation: Jesus Christ
The greatest example of exaltation in the Bible is Jesus Christ.
- He humbled Himself by taking human form and dying on the cross.
- Because of His obedience, God exalted Him to the highest place.
- ‘Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name.’ (Philippians 2:9)
Jesus’ exaltation proves that true honor comes from obedience and submission to God.
How to Exalt God in Daily Life
1. Through Prayer and Worship
One of the simplest ways to exalt God is through prayer and worship.
- Praise God daily for His goodness and mercy.
- Sing worship songs that glorify His name.
- Thank Him for His blessings in all circumstances.
2. Living in Obedience
Obedience is a powerful way to exalt God.
- Follow His commands with sincerity.
- Treat others with kindness and humility.
- Seek His will instead of pursuing selfish desires.
3. Spreading His Name
Exalting God also means making His name known to others.
- Share the gospel and tell people about His greatness.
- Live in a way that reflects God’s love and righteousness.
- Encourage others to trust in Him.
Exaltation in the Kingdom of God
1. Earthly vs. Heavenly Exaltation
The world values power, status, and wealth, but God’s kingdom operates differently.
- The world exalts the proud and powerful.
- God exalts the humble and faithful.
- ‘The last will be first, and the first will be last.’ (Matthew 20:16)
2. The Reward of Faithfulness
God promises eternal exaltation to those who remain faithful.
- ‘If we endure, we will also reign with Him.’ (2 Timothy 2:12)
- ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.’ (Matthew 25:23)
Believers who serve God wholeheartedly will receive honor and rewards in heaven.
The Bible teaches that exaltation belongs to God, and He alone has the power to lift up those who honor Him.
Key Takeaways:
✔ God is exalted above all things.
✔ We must exalt God through worship, obedience, and humility.
✔ God exalts the humble and faithful in His perfect time.
✔ Jesus is the greatest example of humility and exaltation.
✔ Eternal exaltation comes to those who follow God’s ways.
By understanding and applying the biblical meaning of exalt, believers can live in a way that brings glory to God and experience His divine blessings.