Universal Utterings
for August 22, 2026
A Godcast
UniversalUtterings.Com
08-22-2026 Matthew 23 v0112 Whoever Exalts Himself Will Be Humbled
The Gospel of Matthew Chapter 23 Verse 1 thru 12
1 Then Jesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples, 2 saying, “The scribes and the Pharisees have taken their seat on the chair of Moses. 3 Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example. For they preach but they do not practice. 4 They tie up heavy burdens [hard to carry] and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them. 5 All their works are performed to be seen. They widen their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels. 6 They love places of honor at banquets, seats of honor in synagogues, 7 greetings in marketplaces, and the salutation ‘Rabbi.’ 8 As for you, do not be called ‘Rabbi.’ You have but one teacher, and you are all brothers. 9 Call no one on earth your father; you have but one Father in heaven. 10 Do not be called ‘Master’; you have but one master, the Messiah. 11 The greatest among you must be your servant. 12 Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.
In Matthew 23:1-12, Jesus addresses the crowds and His disciples regarding the religious leaders of the time, particularly the Pharisees. He emphasizes the importance of humility and the dangers of hypocrisy. Jesus acknowledges the authority of the Pharisees, urging the people to listen to them, but warns against mimicking their actions, which often fell short of their teachings. They burdened others with their rules while avoiding personal adherence to the same standards, demonstrating a disconnect between their words and deeds.
Central to this passage is the profound lesson that humility precedes true greatness. Jesus firmly states, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” This principle highlights the divine order of things: while society often celebrates self-promotion and pride, the Kingdom of Heaven honors those who serve with a humble heart. The text calls us to reflect on our intentions and attitudes, rather than seeking glory in our achievements or status.
In a world that often values power and prestige, Christ’s teaching serves as a compelling reminder of the transformative nature of humility. When we approach life with a servant’s heart, prioritizing others’ needs, we align ourselves with Jesus’ vision of leadership and greatness. It challenges us to reconsider how we measure success and influence, urging us to focus on character over reputation.
As we meditate on this scripture, let us remember that true exaltation comes from God and is a gift to those who embody humility. May we strive to lead humble lives, recognizing that in surrendering our ego and ambitions to serve others, we participate in the greater purpose of God’s Kingdom. Amen.
Join me as we pray our daily prayer of forgiveness. The Lord’s Prayer.
At the Savior’s command and formed by divine teaching, we dare to pray:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, graciously grant peace in our days, that, by the help of your mercy, we may be always free from sin and safe from all distress, as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours now and forever.
I am sorry Lord. I believe You died and rose for me. Please forgive me as I forgive others. I share You as my Lord and Savior seeking to live your Will in all things. Prayers for wife Toni and my mother Betty pray for our children especially our two oldest Alexandra & Allen Son in Law Mark Stern; Julian, Gabriel and Jeffrey and our grandchildren Oliver, Julian and Elliott. We pray for those we’ve said we’d pray for and those who’ve asked us to pray for them. We pray for the dying as we do each day Lord give them peace in their last breath. Novena Day Five for James Spence. We pray for Holy Mother Church. Our prayers for our niece Brittany. In Jesus Precious Blood by His Name we pray. Amen.
I am a poet obedient to Christ,
Catholic Evangelist Thomas Cruz†Wiggins
†Spirit led God inspired Christ fed†®
Ephesians 6:17-20
08-22-2026 Matthew 23 v0112
**Whoever Exalts Himself Will Be Humbled**
In the shadows where teachers stand tall,
With robes draped like royalty, they heed their own call,
Yet Christ speaks of burdens, a weight they impose,
On shoulders of many, as wisdom he shows.
“Listen,” He calls, “to the words that they say,
But follow their actions, let love light the way.
For they sit in high places, with power they reign,
But humility’s absence is their great disdain.
They preach of the law, its demands they uphold,
Yet their hearts are like tombs, their intentions so cold.
The front of the temple, adorned with great flair,
Hides the spirit’s deep yearning, the genuine prayer.
“Be not called rabbi, for one is your guide,
The humble and meek, in whom truth can abide.
Greatness isn’t found in the titles we wear,
But in serving each other, in love and in care.
For the last shall be first, and the first shall be low,
In the kingdom of heaven, it’s true love we sow.
So lay down your pride, and don’t seek the acclaim,
For true wisdom is knowing we’re all in the same game. Amen.
© Thomas Joe Cruz†Wiggins
August 22, 2026 @ 04:49 AM EST
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**† God First Ministries, Inc. is a Roman Catholic Lay Ministry not sponsored by The Church but is accepted by the IRS as a Religious Charitable Org. and is exempt from Federal Income Tax under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations made through PayPal using GodFirstforJesus@gmail.com, or given to GFM are tax deductible. †**
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