Jesus Increase as I Decrease

VERSE PASSAGE: John 3:30 “He must become greater; I must become less.” – NIV

John the Baptist had spent 30 years in preparation for his ministry. John was not able to enjoy an actual normal life and have the benefits of a childhood or adolescence life. He lived out in the deserts separated unto God instead.

VERSE PASSAGE: Luke 1:80 “And the child grew and became strong in spirit; and he lived in the wilderness until he appeared publicly to Israel.” – NIV

The last few devotionals have been about John the Baptist because there is many things to learn about his ministry and it’s importance. Jesus called him the greatest one ever born. So there has to be something’s about John’s ministry that is important. 

For about six months, John enjoyed success in his ministry like no other man ever had. He started preaching in the wilderness, not in the center of cities. Still the multitudes came to him. He became the most influential man in Israel and even pierced the hearts of Roman rulers. Everything was going John’s way.

Then he baptized Jesus and declared Him as the long-awaited Messiah as stated in Matthew 3:13-17 and John 1:29-34. From that time on, the multitudes who once followed John began to follow Jesus in ever increasing numbers. His own disciples left him to follow Jesus as mentioned in John 1:36-37. This would have destroyed most men. Why? Because John was losing his followers. Though instead of being destroyed, John knew that his ministry was to prepare the way of the Lord. He knew that one would surpass him. He accepted that fact and still continued to worship and serve God.

Even when he was questioned about this very thing, John replied, “He must increase but I must decrease.” This is one of the things that made John the Baptist the greatest of all people as in Matthew 11:11. Jesus later revealed that “The greatest among you will be your servant.” in Matthew 23:11. John is one of the greatest examples of humility in the Bible. 

VERSE PASSAGE: Proverbs 18:12 “Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.” – NIV

We need to get to this place. We need to get to the place where we call for us to decrease for that Jesus can increase. We need to reduce us to increase Him. This is so critical for us to get and do. 

Today, Decrease yourself so that Jesus can increase in your life. 

Be blessed my brothers and sisters in Christ. 

Copyright © 2017 by Jacob D. Olinger