Luke 14:11 - Pride vs Service.

Luke 14:11: Pride vs Service.

Luke 14:11 (KJV)  For whosoever exalteth himself shall be
abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

Luke 14:11 (NIV)  For everyone who exalts himself will be
humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."

Luke 14:11 (NLT)  For the proud will be humbled, but the humble
will be honored."

Jesus' healing of the man with dropsy was his seventh and last
Sabbath healing.... "Dropsy" (14:2) is a disease symptom involving
swelling due to the retention of excessive fluids in body tissues. Jesus
noticed how the Jewish leaders lived in contrast to the way of humility
that he exemplified (14:7) and told a parable to illustrate their
folly (14:8-10). [New Bible Companion]

A basic principle repeated often in the Bible (see 11:43; 18:14;
20:46; 2Ch 7:14-15; Pr 3:34; 25:6- 7; Mt 18:4; 23:12; Jas 4:10; 1Pe
5:6). [NIV SB]

Here Jesus repeats a saying that He used frequently in one form
or another (see Matt. 18:4; 23:12; Luke 18:14; etc.). The principle
here enunciated strikes at the very root of pride, the desire to
exalt oneself in the opinion of others; and pride, in turn, along with
selfishness, is the root of all sin. Jesus Himself set the supreme example of
humility. [SDA Commentary]

How can we humble ourselves? Some people try to give the
appearance of humility in order to manipulate others. Others think that
humility means putting themselves down. Truly humble people compare
themselves only with Christ, realize their own sinfulness, and understand
their limitations. On the other hand, they also recognize their gifts
and strengths and are willing to use them as Christ directs.
Humility is not self-degradation; it is realistic assessment and
commitment to serve. [Life Application SB]

Rather than aiming for prestige, look for a place where you can
serve. If God wants you to serve on a wider scale, he will invite you
to take a higher place. [Life Application SB]