“He must increase, but I must decrease,” John 3:30 (ESV). Jesus’ simple words stand in stark contrast to the spirit of this world, especially in the self-aggrandizing culture of today’s modern culture. But self-generated humility simply will not work since it is nothing more than another form of seething pride. Notice the biblical order set by this passage, it does not begin by decreasing self, it begins by INCREASING HIM! The more God is genuinely exalted in and through our lives, the less our pride gets in the way. Don’t get me wrong, we can even fall into the trap of spiritual pride that comes from taking credit for how much God is exalted through us. I have many times. LORD, cleanse my soul of human pride. Show me how I may lift you higher with genuine humility. O Glorious One, You must increase, I must decrease.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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