2:12-18 tease out the implications of what precedes it. How does that work, exactly?

The "therefore" of Philippians 2:9 is not an encouragement for us to use humility as a means to win the world's approval. The "proper time" of 1 Peter 5:6 is not when that promotion is coming up, or when the starting QB will be named, or when the class valedictorian gives her graduation speech.

Humility for the sake of worldly advancement is an expression of selfish ambition and vain conceit, and perhaps the proudest one at that. If our humility is to be anything like our Savior's--and it emphatically is, Phil 2:5--then it is much more than a strategy. The humility that Jesus exemplified was one that led him to His death.

The exaltation came three days later. The exaltation of Jesus was His vindicating resurrection. It was when God declared Him as the victorious Son over sin and death. It wasn't a salute from Pilate, or the climatic regret of the Pharisees. The mock-absorbing, hate-embracing humility of Jesus lasted until His dying breath and buried body.

Why would we think ours would be different? "Have this mind among yourselves…" This mind! The last day is the "proper time." The resurrection is where we'll be 'exalted.' It is unto that day that we, by grace, "count others more significant" and "humble ourselves before the mighty hand of God."

There is some good food for thought here. May we dwell over this text.