What do you say about yourself? - It's the question the world wants us to be able to answer with pride and confidence. Common answers include: I'm in control of my life; I'm free and no one can say otherwise; I'm a winner; I'm in charge of my destiny. "Speak positive talk and don't let anyone say otherwise," we're told.
John the Baptist took a very different view. He could've claimed to be the Messiah, a prophet, even Elijah - they would've believed and respected him. But no, John said, "I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, 'Make straight the way of the Lord.' (John 1v19)
Later in John 3v29, John the Baptist says, "... The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom's voice. Therefore this joy of mine is now complete. He must increase, but I must decrease."
This is the view of a true Christ-believer. Christ the bridegroom has the words of eternal life and far greater worth than any other person. My voice is only to declare the way to my worthy Saviour, to rejoice that One came to reconcile us to God. If a Christian 'decreases' without Christ 'increasing' that's just low self-esteem and brings misery. If a Christian 'decreases' and Christ 'increases' that's true purpose and brings complete joy.
