“Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain.” Isaiah 40:4

This is part of the prophecy of the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. Using figurative language, the author notes two kinds of people: the humble and the proud. Jesus spoke of the “valleys”, people who are poor in spirit. These valleys know their sinfulness and need of a Savior. They bow before God, humbling themselves to His word and work in their lives. Often, they may be despised by the world and endure great suffering. But, it’s good to be a valley…because the scripture says the valleys will be exalted! Jesus said of these people that the kingdom of heaven belongs to them. There is no greater exaltation!

The mountains, however, would be made low. The proud see themselves as doing pretty well without much help from God. They see no urgent need to be cleansed and forgiven of sin. They can even give a righteous appearance on the outside, and yet be utterly corrupt within. They either ignore God’s word or twist it to fit their own agenda. Jesus spoke harshly to the mountains. They were brought low then, and God will continue to bring them low. 

Are you a valley or a mountain? If Jesus has invaded your heart, you have been made a valley. Reality, however, is that we try to build that mountain again, but He graciously humbles us time after time. May our hearts echo the words of the hymn, “My highest place is lying low at my Redeemer’s feet.”

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