He Must Increase

John the Baptist was at the height of his popularity. Crowds came to him, and his disciples came running with bad news: the One he had baptized was now baptizing more people than he was. They expected him to be upset. Instead he rejoiced. He said he was the friend of the bridegroom, standing by to hear the bridegroom's voice, and his joy was full.

Here is the secret of a life that is truly used of God: it does not need to be the center. John knew his place, and he loved it. The must in his sentence is not grudging. It is the settled certainty of a man who has seen Jesus and understood that nothing else matters in comparison.

Our trouble is that we say we want Jesus to increase, but we want to keep our own share. We want Him to grow in the church as long as our name grows with Him. We want His work done, preferably with our hands on the credit. The Spirit will not share His glory with our reputation.

Decrease is not self-hatred. It is simply moving out of the way so that people can see Him. A window does not draw attention to itself; it lets the light through. A window covered in self is dark.

As you begin this week, ask Him to show you where you have been taking up His room: in conversation, in decisions, in the way you hope to be noticed. Then quietly make space.