John 3:30

John 3:30
He must increase,  and I must decrease.

I have heard this verse several times in the past few days.  At church, as 32 people were baptized and we celebrated College Park's 30th year anniversary, this is what I heard over and over again! The pastor pointed out this is a God thing; it is not about us. He must increase; we must decrease.  If we focus on God, the focus on Him increases. If everything focused on God, how could life not be perfect!

When we say He must increase, and we must decrease, we don't mean that we do not have to do anything anymore. We don't mean God will do everything...although He can if He wants to.  God likes to include us in the things He is working out here on this earth. He likes us to be part of things...to learn...to grow...to be His hands and feet. We just have to ensure we don't make ourselves the focus instead of God.  This focus on self is easy in our generation. Everything is all about instant gratification!  So, focusing on God, is counter-intuitive to this day and age.  However, when we do focus on God, instead of our instant gratification, we will see wonderful things happen. For instance...

Today, my devotional was about being in unity in Ephesians 4:1-16 - Unity and Diversity. It seems to connect so well to the increase/decrease theme. The church is one, yet we are all diverse and given unique talents. If we focus on ourselves, we start comparing/contrasting our talents, jealousy and envy set in, discord has arrived. However, if we focus on God, we realize we shouldn't be envious of other's talents as they are gifts from God for a specific purpose.  God ensures everyone will have the gift(s) they need, so that His will is accomplished. So that He can increase and we will decrease.

So, whatever your gift, or gifts, use them regularly and humbly, so that Christ will become greater and we will become less. Praise others for using their gift(s) regularly and humbly.

All for His kingdom!