Read John 3:22-30
“He must increase, but I must decrease.”—John 3:30
John the Baptist preached the coming of the Messiah and called Israel to repentance. All Israel took note of John’s ministry and many came to be baptized, to include Pharisees and Sadducees (Matthew 3:7).
Then Jesus came on the scene and everyone’s attention shifted to Him. Even John’s disciples noticed, lamenting, “…He (Jesus) is baptizing, and all are coming to Him!” (v26). John didn’t get jealous or bitter that his ministry was being overshadowed. Instead, John celebrated the news and reminded his disciples that preparing the way for Jesus’ ministry was the sole purpose of his own ministry.
Regardless what form our service takes, we’re excited to see our Kingdom work flourish. Yet, the time may come when another person, ministry, or congregation grows and outshines us. Those to whom we have selflessly ministered, cast us aside as they move on to the “new thing.” It can be frustrating when your hard work and service is forgotten.
It’s frustrating only if we’ve made ourselves the focus. When our goal is to perform authentic service to God, we are less concerned about our individual role and fame, and more concerned that the work of the Kingdom is accomplished.
Yet, we’re human and can feel a twinge of envy when others have more visible roles in the Kingdom. As those envies rise, remember John the Baptist’s point: Nothing lasts forever. Everyone serves God for a particular season and purpose, if only to prepare the way for others.
Don’t devote time to questioning who gets the spotlight. Concentrate on doing what God assigned us to do to our very best. Don’t try to mimic or outdo others. Instead, seek ways to build bridges, not draw lanes. Others may overlook your work, but God notices—that’s all that matters.
Question to Ponder: When it comes to serving in the Kingdom, are you in the spotlight or shining the spotlight?
“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase.”—1 Corinthians 3:6-7
