Learning to Decrease – Robert Schaetzle
“He who has the bride is the bridegroom; the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice; therefore this joy of mine is now full. He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:29-30 RSV)
The words above were spoken from John the Baptist, not John the Apostle. Daily, I read God’s word to become closer to Him and recognize His abiding presence. I purpose to learn more of God’s promises given to me. His Word is the reason I desire to decrease my will for His. John the Baptist said it so well as he shared this truth for us all to recognize.
Jesus also taught us to learn from Him daily, die to self (Luke 9:23, 24 RSV) and surrender our will and agenda so that His preeminence in us would be recognized. If we the bride, are to receive Spiritual benefits, we’re to learn how to decrease our selfish intentions so His purpose and Spirit will bring forth the fruit of His work for His honor.
We really are so blessed when we recognize the power of His presence to lead and teach us. “But whoever keeps his word, in him truly love for God is perfected. By this we may be sure that we are in him: he who says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.’ (1 John 2:5-6 RSV).
Yes, learning to keep His word is learning how to ‘decrease’ those feelings of our fleshly intentions and reasoning. Walking daily with His Word in our heart leads us to recognize and understand His higher authority; bringing greater victory over temptations in the dysfunctional world around us.
Father, thank you for your abiding presence, and your promises that teach us how to decrease. AMEN
Contact Robert and read more HERE.