‘John replied, “No one can receive anything unless God gives it from heaven”‘ (John 3:27 NLT).
When John the Baptist’s followers worried that more people were beginning to follow Jesus than their leader, John rebuked them. He recognized that God determined spiritual results. And he also understood that his ministry was to prepare the way for Christ’s ministry. As John said, “I am filled with joy at his success. He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:29-30).
To be jealous of another’s ministry or blessing, is to accuse God of wrong. Having a competitive spirit towards other churches and ministries is to misunderstand God’s work in our cities and world. Instead, rejoice that God is blessing His work through whomever He will. Because after all, it is His work to bless, not ours. And whenever God brings revival to a city, it impacts every ministry that is giving out the gospel. As it has been said, “A rising tide lifts all ships.” Let us respond as John did saying, “I am filled with joy at his success.”
Our calling is not to make ourselves famous, but to make Jesus famous.
PRAYER: Dear Father, forgive us for desiring to make much of ourselves, rather than making much of Your Son. And forgive us for when we feel competitive or jealous of another person or ministry’s blessings. Instead, help us to rejoice with whomever You bless. We want to glorify Jesus in all things. In His name we pray, amen.