Bible Reading:- John 3:22-36
(A series on the Gospel of John – 7)
Have you ever been compared to another person? Perhaps you were told the other person is more successful than you are. None of us likes hearing these things! And this is exactly what is happening to John the Baptist.
John was the first to baptize others in the River Jordan. In fact he was becoming a well known evangelist! Now, however, there is someone else doing the same thing. And that person is Jesus. A Jewish man is quick to point this out! “All are going to him.”
Rather than feeling threatened or justifying himself, John speaks up. He gives an astonishing response! “No one can receive anything, unless God gives it to him from Heaven.” This isn’t a competition. John’s task is only to do what the Father assigns him to do. No more, no less.
Our struggle may not be caused by what others are saying. Perhaps it is because we are making our own comparisons.
We are measuring ourselves against our siblings, friends, or other church members. They are doing better in their studies, or have higher paying jobs. Their ministry seems more effective.
God knows exactly what we need to fulfil his purpose on earth. Success isn’t measured by God in the way man measures it. According to Jesus, success is doing the Father’s will. We are called to listen to the bridegroom and please him, just as John did. We are to do this by using our own gifts and abilities, personalities and backgrounds. Each one of us is unique.
This is what brings real joy and satisfaction. Jesus promised we will be filled with overflowing joy when we do the Father’s will. John experienced that. You can too. Just don’t compare yourself with others!