Have you ever watched "Undercover Boss" and found yourself tearing up at the end? I know I have. There's something captivating about seeing a powerful CEO humble themselves, step out of their comfort zone, and gain a new perspective on their company and employees. This act of humility often leads to positive changes and generous rewards. But what if we applied this same principle to our spiritual lives?
In this blog, I explore the concept of humility through the lens of John the Baptist's interaction with Jesus. This powerful story teaches us valuable lessons about putting others first and focusing on what truly matters.
The Setup: A Clash of Influence
In John 3:22-26, we find an interesting scenario unfolding. Both Jesus and John the Baptist were baptizing people, but John's disciples noticed a shift in popularity. They came to John, concerned that "everybody is going to him [Jesus] instead of coming to us" (John 3:26).
This situation might feel familiar to many of us. Perhaps you've experienced a similar tension at work when a new employee challenges your influence, or in school when a transfer student becomes more popular than you. It's a natural human reaction to feel threatened when our position or influence seems to be diminishing.
John's Surprising Response: A Lesson in Humility
John's response to his disciples' concerns is both surprising and inspiring. Instead of feeling threatened or jealous, he embraces the shift with joy and humility. John declares:
"No one can receive anything unless God gives it from heaven. You yourselves know how plainly I told you, 'I am not the Messiah. I am only here to prepare the way for him'" (John 3:27-28).
John understood his role clearly. He wasn't seeking fame or influence for himself, but was focused on his God-given mission to prepare the way for Jesus. This understanding led him to one of the most powerful statements in the Bible:
"He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less" (John 3:30).
The Power of "More of Him, Less of Me"
This simple yet profound statement encapsulates the essence of true humility. It's not about thinking less of ourselves, but thinking of ourselves less. When we shift our focus from our own desires and ambitions to God's purposes, we open ourselves up to a life of greater meaning and impact.
Applying This Principle in Our Lives
So how can we practically apply this "more of Him, less of me" principle in our daily lives? Here are two key takeaways:
1. More of Him: Draw Near to Jesus
No matter where you find yourself in life – whether you're struggling with hardships or feeling comfortably content – the answer is always "more of Him." As James 4:8 promises, "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you."
This isn't just a nice sentiment; it's a powerful truth that can transform our lives. When we prioritize our relationship with Jesus, everything else tends to fall into place. Our priorities align, our hearts find restoration, and our relationships experience healing.
Practical steps to draw near to God might include:
- Consistent prayer and Bible study
- Participating in church community and small groups
- Serving others in Jesus' name
One easy step you can take is joining us for our sermon series, Waymakers, starting Sunday, January 12. We’ll dive into how you can be a “Waymaker” someone who is all in for Jesus and leads others to Him as well. You can plan your visit here.
2. Less of Me: Invest Your Faith in Others
For those further along in their faith journey, there's a temptation to focus solely on personal spiritual growth. However, true humility calls us to look beyond ourselves and invest in others.
Just as we cherish our relationships with family and friends, we should value opportunities to share our faith. Never miss a chance to share the love of Jesus with those around you – whether it's a neighbor, a coworker, or a family member.
Consider taking on the challenge of discipling someone. By pouring your faith into another person, you're not only helping them grow, but you're also reflecting Christ's love and living out the "less of me" principle.
In Conclusion
As we move forward, let's embrace the humility exemplified by John the Baptist. By seeking "more of Him and less of me," we open ourselves to a life of greater purpose, joy, and impact. May we, like John, find our greatest fulfillment in pointing others to Jesus and seeing His influence grow in our lives and the lives of those around us.