⁵You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.

Addressing the men, Peter assumes the normal course of spiritual growth toward maturity follows the path of humility. Growth is not about exalting oneself in vain ambition. It begins with respect for those who are older and living a life of concerted humbleness; that should be the ambition of every young Christian. Of course, this all applies to women as well, but the struggle is particularly acute in men.

Peter just finished talking with elders about shepherding the people of God. Here he seems to slide into the broader concept of older people in general. However, spiritual advancement should lead all men in the direction of spiritual leadership at some level. Some may aspire (for the right reasons, in humility) to church leadership, and that can be a good thing (see 1 Tim. 3:1). But we all should aspire to spiritual maturity in general, so that when we become older, we are advanced not just in age but also (and more importantly) in spiritual maturity.

So those who are young in the faith and in Christian maturity should undergird their desire for spiritual growth and influence with a pervasive focus on humility. Peter says, “clothe yourselves with humility.” Humility begins with being subject to those who are spiritually more mature, that is, the elders among them, but it also should be the attitude and behavior toward other believers. Humility is essential, especially among men, where the competitive spirit seems integral to the masculine mentality and drive.

The general principle of humility resists anything done in pride. Humility puts us in a position of trust and dependence on God. Instead of relying on our own ego-centered efforts, we trust God will supply in a far better and greater way, far beyond what we deserve. In the end, any accomplishments or spiritual maturity we attain will all be to His glory and not our own. Inherent in all this is a recognition that we are undeserving of God’s help but completely dependent upon Him. He delights to work when we get a handle on this truth.

The greatest hindrance to God’s work among His people and among the leaders of His people is our tendency to self-exaltation. We want to be recognized, we want to be admired, we want to feel accomplished. But the idea of the Christian life is that it is all about His glory, not ours.

Lord, may You increase and I decrease. May You be glorified and not me.