New Testament
1 Peter 5:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse from 1 Peter 5:6 emphasizes the importance of humility and submission to God's authority.
- Author
- Peter the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 62-64
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Persecuted Christians in Asia Minor
So humble yourselves under God's mighty hand, and when the right time comes, he will lift you up.
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from 1 Peter 5:6 emphasizes the importance of humility and submission to God's authority. It teaches that true humility involves recognizing our place in the grand scheme of life and trusting that God is in control. Rather than diminishing our self-worth, humility encourages us to think less about our own desires and more about God's will. The promise in this verse is that God will exalt us at the appropriate time, reminding us that our struggles and efforts are not overlooked. Even when we feel undervalued, God sees our hearts and intentions. He has a divine plan for each of us, and in His perfect timing, He will lift us up. This calls for patience and faith, urging us to resist the urge to seek our own glory. Trusting in God's timing can be difficult, but it ultimately leads to peace and fulfillment. We are encouraged to wait on Him with hope, knowing that He cares for us and will act in our favor when the moment is right.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Peter 5:6 to your life
To live out this verse, reflect on areas where you seek recognition or control. Embrace humility by releasing the need to be in charge. Trust that God has a plan for you and will elevate you in His timing. Focus on serving others instead of pursuing your own glory, which can lead to greater peace and fulfillment as you wait on God.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Peter Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Peter 5:6 mean?
1 Peter 5:6 teaches that we should humble ourselves before God, recognizing His authority over our lives. It assures us that if we submit to Him, He will lift us up at the right time.
What is the meaning of humility in 1 Peter 5:6?
In this verse, humility means acknowledging our limitations and trusting in God's plan rather than seeking our own recognition. It encourages us to serve others and focus on God's will.
How can I apply 1 Peter 5:6 in my life?
To apply this verse, practice humility by letting go of the need for control and recognition. Focus on serving others and trust that God will elevate you when the time is right.
What does 'God's mighty hand' refer to in 1 Peter 5:6?
'God's mighty hand' refers to His power and authority over all things. It signifies that we can trust in His strength and timing as we humble ourselves before Him.

The Book of 1 Peter
1–2: Living as God's people
Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, writes to the believers scattered throughout various regions, identifying them as elect according to God's foreknowledge. He blesses God for giving them a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, an incorruptible inheritance reserved in heaven. Though they face various trials, their faith is being tested and proven genuine, which will result in praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Peter calls them to be holy in all their conduct, just as God who called them is holy, reminding them that they were redeemed not with silver or gold but with the precious blood of Christ. Having been born again through the living and abiding word of God, they are to love one another earnestly from a pure heart.
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