In the previous meditation, we saw Moses and Joseph as examples of meek people. We gave considerable attention to Joseph and saw how his humility led to his promotion. We are turning our attention to a character in the New Testament. John the Baptist came as the forerunner of Jesus. He received a lavish endorsement from no less a character than Jesus. Hear Him: “Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist…” (Matthew 11:11). John was adjudged great by Jesus. This was not because of an extraordinary sermon that he preached or miracles performed. In reality, he performed no miracle at all. His greatness can only be traced to his humility.
“Genuinely humble people do not engage in self- aggrandizement.”
Examining this noble personality, the first pointer to humility in his life was his refusal to engage in showmanship. Neither his choice of abode nor menu was anything special. The Bible says he lived in the deserts to the day of his showing forth. He ate locusts and honey, and wore clothes made from animal skins. Further proof of humility was his refusal to usurp the office of the Messiah, stating simply that he only came to prepare the way for Him. From our text today, we see the ultimate test of humility. John declared that he must decrease while Jesus must increase. True humility is when we discard our carnal desires and allow the Spirit to reign. Humility is staying in the background so that Christ alone is seen by the world. Genuinely humble people do not engage in self- aggrandizement.
