John the Baptists' mission was to prepare the people for Jesus. At age thirty-three, Jesus began his mission with twelve disciples. John the Baptist also had disciples who became envious of Jesus and his disciples. John's disciples came to John and complained that the people were starting to go to Jesus. Previously, John the Baptist had more influence than anyone in the entire region. In fact, the priests were quite jealous of John the Baptist's influence and power.  

At this time, John the Baptist could have became a stumbling block to Jesus' mission. All John would have needed to do was to sympathize with his disciples.  Instead, John responded by saying, “A man can get only what God gives him. You yourselves heard me say, ‘I am not the Christ, but I am the one sent to prepare the way for him.' The bride belongs only to the bridegroom. But the friend who helps the bridegroom stands by and listens to him. He is thrilled that he gets to hear the bridegroom's voice. In the same way, I am really happy. He must become greater, and I must become less important.” John 3:27-30.  

John the Baptist never lost focus of his mission. He refused to allow jealousy rear its ugly head. If we surrender our will to God, we too will find that our desire for self advancement will be overtaken by our love for Christ.  

Let's be like John the Baptist in our daily lives. Whether it's a position in the church, at work, or amongst friends, let's be willing to step aside to allow others to lead when appropriate. It's easy to allow pride to get in the way, which can interfere with the greater good.