The world around us shouts, “Believe in yourself!
Build your brand! Boost your self-esteem!” But John the Baptist sang a
radically different tune: “He must increase, but I must decrease.” Just eight
words—yet they form the anthem of a truly Christ-centered life.
In psychology, “ego” refers to our sense of self—our
self-esteem, self-worth, or self-importance. A healthy ego, we’re told, helps
us make wise decisions and navigate relationships with confidence. And that’s
true… to a point. But when the ego swells—when life starts orbiting around
me—the soul begins to starve. Inflated egos demand recognition, crave applause,
and wrestle for the spotlight. But John flips the script: spiritual maturity
isn’t thinking more of ourselves—or even less of ourselves—it’s thinking of
ourselves less.
John knew his role to perfection. He wasn’t the
Messiah; he was the messenger. He wasn’t the Bridegroom; he was the friend who
rejoices at the Bridegroom’s voice. The spotlight belonged to Jesus alone. So
when the crowds began following Christ instead of him, John didn’t sulk—he
celebrated! His joy was complete because his mission was fulfilled. The
friend’s job was to introduce the Groom, not upstage Him.
Here’s the truth: when we shrink ourselves and
magnify Jesus, life finds its rhythm. When He increases, peace expands, pride
deflates, and clarity returns. But when we increase—our plans, our preferences,
our platform—joy quietly slips away. Self-importance is a heavy yoke; surrender
is a liberating grace.
Culture says, “Polish the self.” Scripture says,
“Crucify it.” The ego insists, “I need to be seen.” The Spirit gently whispers,
“Let Christ be seen through you.” John the Baptist didn’t lose his identity by
decreasing—he found it in full by exalting Christ.
So today, trade self-promotion for
Savior-exaltation. Let Jesus’ presence overshadow your pride, His purpose
outrank your plans, and His glory eclipse your gain. The path to joy isn’t
upward—it’s downward into humility, where Christ reigns supreme.
May the Lord teach your heart the freedom of surrender and the beauty of humility. May your voice grow quiet so His may be heard. And may your life echo John’s timeless declaration: “He must increase, but I must decrease.”
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