2/3/2026

Day 3:

 John the Baptist — He Must Increase

John 3:25–30 (NLT)

Few figures in Scripture embody surrendered humility as clearly as John the Baptist. At the height of his influence, John had what many leaders secretly crave: massive crowds, devoted disciples, national attention, and undeniable spiritual fruit. “People from Jerusalem and from all of Judea and all over the Jordan Valley went out to see and hear John” (Matthew 3:5, NLT). He was feared by kings, respected by the people, and affirmed by God. Yet John summarized his life’s posture with five words that dismantle ego and define surrender: “He must become greater; I must become less.”

The setting makes this declaration even more powerful. John’s disciples came to him unsettled and defensive: “Rabbi… the one you testified about—look, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him” (John 3:26, NLT). Translation: your platform is shrinking, your relevance is fading, and your moment is passing. This is where pride usually awakens—where comparison breeds insecurity and leaders scramble to preserve influence. John does none of this. Instead, he responds with theological clarity and deep joy.

“A person can receive only what is given them from heaven” (John 3:27, NLT). John understood that calling is assigned, not achieved. Influence is entrusted, not earned. If God gives a platform, He also reserves the right to reassign it. This truth dismantles comparison and kills competition. “What do you have that God hasn’t given you?” Paul later asked (1 Corinthians 4:7, NLT). When everything is gift, there is nothing to cling to.

John then explains his role: “I am not the Messiah. I am only here to prepare the way for him” (John 3:28, NLT). He uses wedding imagery to make the point unmistakable. Jesus is the bridegroom. The people are the bride. John is merely the friend of the bridegroom, the best man. His joy is not found in being seen, but in hearing the bridegroom’s voice and watching the bride go to Him. “That joy is mine, and it is now complete” (John 3:29, NLT). John didn’t tolerate obscurity; he celebrated it.

This is humility’s true test: rejoicing when your influence decreases because Christ’s influence is increasing. It is the ability to step out of the spotlight without resentment, to release recognition without bitterness, and to applaud when God uses someone else in ways He once used you. “Love is not jealous or boastful or proud” (1 Corinthians 13:4, NLT).

John also understood seasons. His calling was intentionally temporary. He was a forerunner, not the destination. There is deep freedom in accepting the God-ordained limits of your assignment. You are not called to be permanent, only faithful. “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1, NLT).

Later, John would be imprisoned and executed, largely forgotten by the crowds that once adored him. Yet Jesus would say of him, “I tell you the truth, of all who have ever lived, none is greater than John the Baptist” (Matthew 11:11, NLT). The man who chose decrease was called great. Heaven honors those who refuse to exalt themselves.

Identify one area where you are tempted to protect recognition, position, or influence. Deliberately release it to God this week. Celebrate someone else’s success. Point attention to Christ instead of yourself. Serve without being seen. Speak well of those God is using—even if it costs you visibility. Choose joy in your assigned role, trusting God with outcomes and reputation.

True humility is not losing influence reluctantly, but laying it down joyfully so Christ alone is seen.