The bringing low of those exalted by the world is here contrasted to Yahweh’s exaltation. The contrast of position and direction are intentional. “Brought down” (v. 15) matches “exalted” (v. 16). Thus, the two verses highlight the reversal of the power structure. Those whose power derives from worldly sources are bought down because Yahweh’s true power is manifest. The false is replaced by the true.