He Must Increase
He must increase, but I must decrease.
John 3:30
“He must increase, but I must decrease.” John the Baptist understood it was good for him to become less visible and known, for the Lord Jesus to become more visible and known. In even larger aspects, this should be the motto of every Christian, especially leaders among God’s people. Jesus should become greater and more visible, and the servant should become less and less visible.
Self-centredness is the basic cause of much of our distress in life. Hypochondria, a mental disorder which is accompanied by melancholy and depression, is often caused by self-pity and self-centredness. Most of us suffer from spiritual near-sightedness. Our interests, our loves, and our energies are too often focused upon ourselves. Jesus underlined the fact that His disciples were to live out flowingly rather than selfishly. To the rich young ruler He said, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in Heaven; and come, follow Me” (Matthew 19:21). It was not the giving away of his goods that Jesus demanded, particularly, but rather, that he be released from selfishness, and its devastating effect on his personality and life.
Bible Reading
Matthew 19:16-22
Prayer
Teach me to completely open my heart to You Father God, that there will be no room for self. Cleanse me, Lord, of all selfish thoughts and deeds. In Jesus name I ask. Amen.
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