He Must Increase…

John 3:30 (NASB) He must increase, but I must decrease.

Reading this verse in its context, John the Baptist, nearing the end of his ministry, tells his disciples that Jesus Christ is the Bridegroom, but he, John, is just His friend. He is one who partnered with God in “preparing the way” for the Coming One, Jesus. Then he says, “He must increase, but I must decrease”.  John 3:25-30 

Great as John was in the Kingdom of God, he understood that Jesus was and always would be first.   His work was to join God in preparing the way for Him.  As Jesus’ ministry emerged, John’s “joy was made full”.  His work had been accomplished.  Joy always comes to those of us who not only know our God-given purpose, but see it being achieved.

If this was true for John, how much more for me. I am the friend of Jesus, though flawed and insignificant, yet redeemed.  I’m privileged to partner with Him in His forever endeavors.  His purposes and way should be made clearer over time through me and in my small sphere of influence.

Much more, He must increase and I decrease…Every moment, more of Him and less of me…Him always greater than (>), and me less than (<).  For me, it is best said, ALL of Him and NONE of me.  I’m simply a modest container through which He is free to pour His Saving Life…the container ultimately disregarded due to the far greater significance …value of Who / What is pouring from it.

Rightly related to God and functioning in His Life via the Holy Spirit, I become increasingly invisible and He ever more radiant. As I cooperate and let Him do His all-encompassing work, He is Glorified. I will know the fullness of joy that comes as He does His work and gets His Glory in me.  This is His intended purpose / destiny for all humanity.  As this spiritual crescendo is seen, our Heavenly Father is pleased; He takes great pleasure in us.

The Westminster Catechism states, “The chief end and duty of mankind, is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.”

Is there anything else to strive for? Is there any greater endeavor? Can there be a more significant achievement and work as we live or die? All of scripture speaks a resounding “No”.  And if He is pleased in my every moment, then that is true success indeed…the Godward life.

How I need more of Him and less of me. How I need Him to get at the things inside that I cannot get to…to remove the distractions, infatuations and hindrances to which I am predisposed…all that compromises His Life and Light.  This is living as He intended, Life indeed, pure and simple…the ultimate fulfillment and satisfaction.  May it be true today and increasingly so in me.  And, this is my prayer for you.

Aspiring,

Mitch