I must decrease.

“He must increase, I must decreases.” John 3:30

Inspired by the words of St. John the Baptist, I bow, step aside, and submit my life to Jesus. 

He must increase.

I must decrease.

Lord help me make my life about lifting You up and uplifting others.

Teach me how to see myself, my wants, and my ideas as less (even least) important.

Show me how to put the needs and sensitivities of others first.

Humble me, when I compete with others for praise.

Correct me, when I put others down for self-glorification and self-righteousness.

Slow me down, when I sell my soul just to reach the finish line first.

Obscure me, when I seek to be seen and applauded at the forefront.

Silence me, when I speak of my accomplishments with pride as though it is not You doing Your great works through me.

Decrease me, when I think I deserve to increase.

In this world, where self-centeredness is pushed and glorified, remind me Lord, that I am meek, small, and insignificant without Jesus my Savior.

Forgive me for ever thinking and proclaiming that I am greater, wiser, and know better than others.

For if You search my heart, You will find I am just as faulty, guilty, and sinful as the same brothers and sisters I constantly and mercilessly judge.

Lord, You are the one and only truly worthy of adoration.

Not me. 

Never me.

I surrender to You and concede that without Christ, I am nothing.

I know nothing.

I want nothing.

I beg you in my humility, lessen me Lord.

May any light I ever radiate only shine and magnify Your greatness.