5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. 6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: 7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. (1 Peter 5:5-7 KJV)
Submit to God, Resist the Devil
Having settled and explained the duty of the pastors or spiritual guides of the church, the apostle now instructs the flock.
He addresses the younger, likely both in age and in position, reminding them of their role and their need to submit to the elders. They are to give proper respect and listen to their instruction and correction, especially when it’s grounded in the Word of God (Luke 22:26; Hebrews 13:17). Toward one another, they should be mutually submissive, ready to receive counsel, carry each other’s burdens, and practice all the duties of love and friendship. Individuals ought to be guided by the direction of the larger church community (Ephesians 5:21; James 5:16).
Because these acts of humility go against our natural pride and self-interest, the apostle urges them to clothe themselves with humility—an attitude that makes obedience easier and more pleasant. “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”
Humility preserves peace and order in Christian communities, while pride disrupts and divides. God actively opposes the proud because they oppose His kingdom (Proverbs 3:34). But to the humble, He gives more grace—more wisdom, faith, and holiness. Therefore, “Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that he may lift you up in due time” (1 Peter 5:6).
Since God’s judgment is near and begins with His own people (1 Peter 4:17), believers should submit to Him. His power can humble or exalt, and He will do so at the right time, either in this life or in the life to come.
The power of God should lead us to humble submission in whatever He allows. Submitting to Him is the way to deliverance—through patience, repentance, prayer, and hope, we receive His help (James 4:7, 10).
The apostle knows these believers are already suffering and anticipates even greater trials ahead. This could cause anxiety for themselves, their families, and the church. He gives them the best counsel and supports it with a strong reason: “Cast all your care on God, because he cares for you.”
Your worries—painful, overwhelming, and deeply personal—should be placed fully in God’s hands. Trust His wise and loving providence. He is willing to carry your burdens. He will either prevent what you fear or strengthen you to endure it. All events will be arranged to prove His love and care, and ultimately work for your good (Matthew 6:25; Psalm 84:11; Romans 8:28).
The best Christians often carry heavy and varied burdens: personal worries, family concerns, fears about the future, and deep care for others and the church. These anxieties can become sinful when they come from doubt, disturb our peace, hinder our duties, and take joy from our worship.
The best cure for anxiety is to cast it on God, trusting His wisdom and goodness. Believing in His perfect will brings calm to the soul. “We stopped insisting, saying, ‘The Lord’s will be done’” (Acts 21:14).