He Must Increase

   When some of John’s disciples came to him complaining that many were following Jesus rather than him John replied, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3: 30).  John understood that his mission was complete and that Jesus must become the focus in order to bring salvation to the world.

   We need to have this same attitude toward our place in God’s plan.  Many want to be the head-liner of the show; they want others to see them as the one who can bring them to salvation by their preaching and teaching.  Whether they are ministers, priests, pastors or lay people they place too much importance on their own efforts.  Without doubt their efforts are needed but no one can be brought to salvation except through Jesus.  He said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me.” (John 14: 6).

   Our pride is the cause of much sin.  Through vanity we sometimes place too much emphasis on our own importance and lessen the place of Jesus in our life.  As we walk the path God puts before us we must allow Jesus to become the foremost while we bow to His will and humbly accept the love, mercy and salvation He offers us.

 

   The old bumper sticker that says “God is my co-pilot” has it wrong.  We are to be the co-pilot following the direction given by the Lord.  Humility before the Lord will lead us home.