In what ways can we prioritize Jesus' ministry over personal ambitions today? Setting the Scene from John 3:26 “Rabbi, the One who was with you across the Jordan, the One you testified about — He is baptizing, and everyone is going to Him.” John’s disciples sound alarmed: Jesus’ popularity is eclipsing their teacher’s. The moment exposes two paths: defend personal territory or rejoice that Christ is taking center stage. Learning from John’s Example • John refuses to compete with Jesus (see v. 27-30). • He recognizes his role as “friend of the bridegroom” (v. 29), celebrating the groom’s success. • He declares, “He must increase; I must decrease.” (John 3:30). • John’s joy is complete when Jesus is exalted, not when his own platform expands. Practical Ways to Put Jesus First Today 1. Check motives before serving: – Ask, “Will this spotlight Christ or me?” 2. Celebrate others’ fruitfulness: – When another believer’s ministry thrives, thank God aloud for them. 3. Redirect praise: – If complimented, point back to the Lord: “All He did was let me participate.” 4. Prioritize obedience over recognition: – Quiet acts of kindness (Matthew 6:3-4) train the heart to value God’s approval. 5. Tithe time and resources: – Budget kingdom giving first; let personal goals fit around it (Proverbs 3:9). 6. Schedule regular “decrease” moments: – Fasting, social-media breaks, or choosing backstage roles remind us who’s truly central. Guardrails Against Self-Centered Ambition • Scripture saturation: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly” (Colossians 3:16). • Accountability partners who will gently ask, “Who got the glory?” • Sabbath rest that declares, “God runs the world, not me” (Exodus 20:10-11). • Contentment practice: “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” (1 Timothy 6:6). Encouragement from Other Voices in Scripture • Paul: “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20). • Peter: “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others… so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 4:10-11). • Jesus: “Whoever wants to be first must be the last of all and servant of all.” (Mark 9:35). Choosing John’s posture turns ambition into worship, proving every decrease in self can become an increase in the fame of our Savior. |
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