Scripture: John 3:27 (ESV) – “John answered, ‘A person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given him from heaven.’”
John the Baptist responds to his disciples’ concerns about Jesus’ growing influence with a profound truth: every role, gift, and success in ministry comes from God alone. Rather than feeling threatened by Jesus’ rising prominence, John humbly acknowledges that all things—his ministry, his influence, and even the ability to serve—are sovereignly given by God.
The document emphasizes the depth of John’s humility and trust in God’s divine plan. John does not try to cling to his status or fight for personal recognition. Instead, he embraces his God-given role, knowing that his purpose was always to prepare the way for Christ. This statement reminds us that any position we hold—whether in ministry, leadership, or life—is not earned by personal effort alone but is entrusted to us by God.
J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, highlights how this verse teaches a vital lesson about contentment and submission to God’s will. He warns that jealousy and ambition can often creep into spiritual work, but John’s response is the perfect antidote: recognizing that all good things come from God. Ryle also notes that this truth applies not only to spiritual gifts but to all of life. Whether wealth, talents, influence, or opportunities, everything we have is a gift from heaven, and we should hold it with gratitude and humility.
For us, this verse is a call to trust in God’s sovereignty over our lives. Instead of striving for personal status or recognition, we are called to serve faithfully in whatever role God has given us, knowing that it is His plan, not ours, that ultimately matters. True joy comes not from success but from knowing we are walking in God’s will.
Reflection Questions:
- How does John’s response challenge your own view of success and recognition?
- Are there areas in your life where you struggle to trust that God has given you exactly what you need?
- How can you cultivate a heart of gratitude and humility, recognizing that all you have is from God?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that all things come from You. Help us to trust in Your sovereign plan and to serve You with humility, knowing that every gift, every opportunity, and every role is given by Your grace. Guard our hearts against jealousy or ambition, and teach us to rejoice in whatever position You have assigned to us. May we live to glorify You, content in knowing that You alone are in control. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
This devotional is based on Pastor Chris Cousine’s sermon material and supplemented with insights from J.C. Ryle’s Expository Thoughts on the Gospels on John 3:27.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 