Less of Me, More of Him: The Transformative Power of Surrender

Author: Ayodeji Oludapo

Date: August 16, 2024

Scripture: "He must become greater; I must become less." — John 3:30 (NIV)

Devotional Thoughts:

In a world that often celebrates self-promotion, personal ambition, and the pursuit of recognition, John the Baptist’s declaration stands as a profound countercultural statement. John understood his role in the grand narrative of God's kingdom—his purpose was to point others to Christ, not to elevate himself. He recognized that in order for Jesus to take His rightful place as the Savior and Lord, he had to step aside.

This verse is a call to each of us to reexamine our priorities and the posture of our hearts. It challenges us to ask whether we are more concerned with our own status, achievements, and recognition than with making Christ known. John’s words remind us that true fulfillment and joy come not from exalting ourselves, but from exalting Christ.

When we choose to decrease, we make room for God’s presence, power, and purpose to increase in our lives. This doesn’t mean diminishing our value or ignoring our gifts; rather, it means surrendering our will to God’s will, allowing His plans to take precedence over our own. It means seeking to glorify Him in all that we do, knowing that His ways are higher than ours.

As we live with the mindset of decreasing so that Christ may increase, we reflect His love, grace, and truth more clearly to those around us. Our lives become a testimony to the greatness of God, drawing others to Him.

Practical Reflection

• In what areas of your life do you struggle with self-promotion or the desire for recognition?

• How can you intentionally seek to decrease so that Christ may increase in your thoughts, actions, and decisions?

• Are there areas where you need to surrender control, trusting that God’s plan is greater than your own?

Closing Thoughts

As we journey through life, it's easy to get caught up in the pursuit of success, recognition, and personal fulfillment. But John the Baptist’s words remind us of a higher calling—to make our lives a platform for Christ to shine. In decreasing ourselves, we find true greatness in Him. Let us live with a daily prayer that echoes John's humble spirit: "Lord, may I decrease so that You may increase." As we do, we will discover the true joy and peace that come from living a life centred on God’s glory rather than our own.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I come before You, acknowledging my tendency to seek recognition and to prioritize my own desires. I ask for Your help in humbling myself, that I may decrease and You may increase in my life. Teach me to surrender my will to Yours, to trust in Your perfect plan, and to live in a way that brings glory to Your name. May others see Your greatness in me, and may my life be a reflection of Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.