That those which mourn may be exalted to safety.
The exaltation and safety of the penitent
I. Of the character which God approves. That of the lowly and contrite.
1. He is not adverting to those who are low and depressed in outward circumstances. Divine lowliness is the effect of grace.
2. There can be no true humiliation for sin which does not express itself in godly sorrow.
II. How he expresses that approbation. “He resisteth the proud; He giveth grace to the humble.” God expresses His approbation of His saints, not only by their elevation to exalted privileges and honours, but by their security. (Stephen Bridge, M. A.)