In what ways can we prioritize Christ's glory over our own ambitions? The Setting: John’s Heartbeat “ He must increase; I must decrease.” (John 3:30) John the Baptist’s short declaration is a window into a life calibrated for Christ’s glory. John knew: • Christ is the Bridegroom; John is only the friend (John 3:29). • Joy is fullest when Jesus is front-and-center, not when self is. What John Models: “He Must Increase” • A settled conviction: Jesus outranks every personal goal (John 3:31). • A joyful surrender: decreasing is not loss but gain (John 3:29). • A voice, not the Word: John’s identity was wrapped in pointing away from himself (John 1:23). Practical Ways to Let Christ Increase • Redirect applause – When praised, openly acknowledge Christ as the source (1 Corinthians 10:31). • Serve from hidden places – Seek opportunities that bless others without public notice (Matthew 6:3-4). • Filter ambitions through Scripture – Ask: Does this pursuit display Christ’s worth or inflate mine? (Philippians 2:3-4). • Begin each project with a “for the Lord” mindset – “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord…” (Colossians 3:23-24). • Choose downward mobility when needed – Embrace tasks considered “beneath” you, imitating Christ’s servant-mind (Philippians 2:5-8). • Prioritize eternal returns – Invest time, money, and talent where Kingdom impact outweighs personal benefit (Matthew 6:19-21). Guardrails Against Self-Glory • Daily self-denial (Luke 9:23). • Regular confession of pride (James 4:6). • Accountable friendships that spotlight blind spots (Proverbs 27:17). • Frequent meditation on Christ’s supremacy (Colossians 1:15-18). Promises That Make Self-Denial Possible • Union with Christ supplies power: “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20) • God sees the hidden work and rewards openly (Matthew 6:6). • Seeking His kingdom first secures every legitimate need (Matthew 6:33). A Life Reoriented: The Fruit • Deeper joy: Satisfaction grows as Christ’s name spreads. • Unshakable identity: Success or setback no longer defines worth. • Clear witness: A decreasing self makes an increasing Savior visible to others. |
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