Verse from John

“他必兴旺，我必衰微。”

‭‭约翰福音‬ ‭3:30‬ ‭

“He must increase, but I must decrease.”

‭‭John‬ ‭3:30‬ ‭

The outreach activities of a particular church culminated with a city-wide service. As the team that had organized and led the events—comprised of the youth music group, counselors, and church leaders—walked onto the stage, everyone all excitedly applauded and poured out their appreciation for their hard work.

One man, however, was hardly noticeable, yet he was the leader of the team. When a church member commented, “We hardly noticed you during the program.”, his reply was “I like to work in the background,”. He was not concerned with getting recognition for himself. It was time for those who did the work to receive appreciation.

His quiet demeanor was an entire sermon. It was a reminder that when serving the Lord, we need not seek to be recognized. We can give honor to God whether or not we are openly appreciated by others. A Christ-first attitude can subdue any petty jealousies or unhealthy competition.

Jesus, who is “above all” (John 3:31), “must become greater; I must become less” (v.30). When we have this attitude, we will seek the progress of God’s work. It is Christ, not us, who should be the focus of all we do.

Jesus, be the center of my thoughts, desires, and actions. 

The spotlight is the place for Christ.