John Calvin Commentary 1 Peter 5:6

"Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time;" — 1 Peter 5:6 (ASV)

Humble yourselves therefore. We must always bear in mind for what purpose he instructs us to be humble before God, namely, that we may be more courteous and kind to our fellow believers, and not refuse to submit to them as far as love demands. Then those who are haughty and rebellious towards people are, he says, acting insolently towards God. He therefore exhorts all the godly to submit to God’s authority; and he calls God’s power his hand, so that he might make them fear more. For although 'hand' is often applied to God, it is to be understood here according to the context of the passage. But as we commonly tend to fear that our humility might be a disadvantage to us, and others might for this reason become more insolent, Peter addresses this objection and promises eminence to all who humble themselves.

But he adds, in due time, so that he might at the same time prevent too much haste. He then suggests that it is necessary for us to learn humility now, but that the Lord knows very well when it is beneficial for us to be exalted. Thus it is fitting for us to yield to his counsel.