My hands have made both heaven and earth;
    they and everything in them are mine.
    I, the Lord, have spoken!

“I will bless those who have humble and contrite hearts,
    who tremble at my word.”

Isaiah 66:2

When I first read the verses above, it took a moment for me to connect the thoughts. First, we read God’s declaration that it is He who has “made both heaven and earth” and the second thought refers to the appropriate response of the LORD’s creation.

Compare the idea of humility to the LORD’s description of the King of Babylon who was something less than humble. Isaiah records how this king aspired to be equal with God.

 I will climb to the highest heavens
    and be like the Most High.’

Isaiah 14:14

Most of us aren’t so bold, but none of us is king of Babylon either, right? Still, whenever we make anything other than God at the center of our life, we are doing anything but responding in humility.

You’re probably familiar with James’ words –

But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Submit yourselves therefore to God.

James 4:6-7

God promises to bless those who humble themselves, are repentant and believe the word of God.