Psalms 75:5

Psalms 75:5

This verse reinforces the previous admonitions: “Lift not up your horn on high: speak not with a stiff neck.” The imagery of a “stiff neck” communicates obstinacy, arrogance, and resistance to admonition. The psalmist calls the wicked to humility, to cease exalting themselves in pride. The context again is a courtly or communal setting where displays of power and status could be misused. The imperative is a corrective: do not exalt yourself; do not display strength in a way that blinds you to God’s sovereignty. The language aligns with other psalms and wisdom literature that condemn pride and promote humble worship before God.

Theologically, the verse ties pride to spiritual danger. It demonstrates that God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (paralleling later biblical teaching). It also underlines the reality that true honor comes from God’s judgment, not human applause or self-promotion. The call to humility is not passive; it is a proactive posture in which one refuses to exercise power in ways that defy God’s rightful authority. This fits within the larger scriptural arc about divine perspective on leadership and success.

Practically, assess where you might be exalting yourself—titles, achievements, or public praise. Cultivate humility by asking: How does this position serve others? What would this look like if God measured it? In workplaces, promote a culture where leadership is about service, not status. In family life, model teachable humility—accept feedback, admit mistakes, and avoid the instinct to “stand tall” in a way that silences others. The aim is to cultivate a steady, humble posture before God, which attracts trust and fosters genuine influence.

Cross-References: Proverbs 16:18; James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5-6; Philippians 2:3-4; Psalm 131:1-2