Humility Means More
John shows remarkable humility here: "He must become greater, I must become less." In this instance, I think John is referring to his public ministry versus Jesus' public ministry. But there might be a bigger picture here. When we decide to accept God's son, when we fully commit our hearts to following Christ, it leaves little room for holding onto our old selves. We must empty ourselves to be filled in spirit. More of Jesus, less of me.
Of course, this character transformation doesn't happen overnight. It didn't for me and it won't for you, either. By the way, it's not easy. In fact, it's one of the hardest things you'll ever do. Suddenly thrown into this dependency relationship that looks more whining-child-to-parent than adoring-daughter-to-loving-father, questions will surface and challenge your new relationship: What do you mean i can't get drunk anymore? Why should i change at all again? Define "least of these?" And what's this about tithing?
When I rely on me, i'm limited. i can only do so much before one of two things occur: either i fail myself or i fail others. God never fails. When we rely less on ourselves and our own strengths, and lean more on God's, we become limitless. When we focus less on ourselves and turn our attention toward God - we set our minds on things above. It's the beginning of trusting Jesus more than myself in every aspect of my life. The old me shrinks away and a new me, emulating the image of God, begins to take shape. God intended the knowledge, joy and love of Christ to complete us. Just remember this one thing ... more of Jesus, less of me.
Song to consider: "Thrill" by Charlie Hall
Created over 2 years ago
