Day Twenty-Six "I Am Second"

“He must increase and I must decrease.” [Jn. 3:30]

The truth in this statement made by John the Baptist is staggering. When he said that Jesus must increase what he meant was that Jesus must grow in importance. He must be elevated in status. Jesus must be exalted in rank. Jesus must become the “big deal”. This short verse really sums up Christ’s position.

He is to be our highest priority. Nothing is to rank above Him. Not our spouse or our children. Not our jobs. Not sports, hobbies, or our possessions. He should get the best of our time and energy. Jesus is preeminent above all else in our lives. Everything and everyone takes a backseat to Jesus.

He is our supreme Ruler and Commander. In life He is the Commanding Officer and we are the foot soldiers who obey His commands. Jesus is a “big deal” in life and we are not. Many people live their whole lives like they are more important than they really are. How many sports figures think they are a big deal? Jim Brown retired and so did Michael Jordan, as well as Nolan Ryan. Other blossoming stars have become household names. Fame is fleeting. Not for Jesus. He is King today and forever more. He is increasing in importance. His fame is spreading as well as His influence.

On the other hand we should be decreasing. That means we should become of less importance. Our wills, desires, opinions, and talents are not that important. It doesn’t matter if people remember our names. It only matters that they remember Christ and make a big deal out of Him. We are lesser in rank and inferior to Christ. In essence we are not a big deal.

The only reason any of us can boast that we are anything is because Jesus chooses to love us and shower His grace on us. Our only boast is in the cross of Christ. [Gal 6:14]

Have you lived your life to make much of you or much of Christ? Have you lived out your days to make yourself look more important than you really are? Have you sought to be elevated in status by family? What about by your friends and coworkers? Jesus is preeminent. You and I are and will always be inferior so let us live to make much of Him and less of us.

Steps to Revival

1. How have you lived your life? Have you lived to make much of you or much of Jesus Christ?

2. What are some practical steps you can take to make Jesus of more importance and exalted in rank in your life?

3. How can you humble yourself as inferior and of less importance than Christ?

4. Will you live to make much of Jesus Christ and less of yourself?