No Competition

Scripture – John 3:27-30: To this John replied, “A man can receive only what is given him from heaven. You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Christ but am sent ahead of him.’ The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom’s voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete. He must become greater; I must become less.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) John knew his place in God’s plan. His role was to prepare the way for Jesus – the Messiah. In the previous verse, some people complained to John that Jesus was baptizing in a different place and He was becoming more popular. They saw a competition. John understood, in God’s plan, there is no competition. As the public ministry of Jesus began, John found joy in that – and he found the completion or fulfillment of his ministry. That led him to that great observation, “He must become greater; I must become less.” I am not in competition with other pastors, nor is Bethel in competition with other churches. We are all called to Kingdom work. Christ is the One who must become greater.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will look for ways to lift up His name. I will stop being concerned with promoting BBC. We are called to be Christ’s witnesses (Acts 1:8). As long as we remain faithful to that call, we will be a healthy and “successful” congregation.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) I have, as you know, Lord, a strong competitive nature in me. Remind me throughout this week especially that I am not in competition – in ministry or in my faithfulness to you or even in all of life. Help me live simply. And in my living, may Christ somehow be seen.