The story of John the Baptist is an object lesson of how serious we should take our unique talents and calling. The Lord has given each of us unique gifts that are given for the blessing of humanity and we should not squander them away. According to Jesus John the Baptist was most successful in the task given to him by God, to prepare the way for Jesus. John the Baptist did an excellent job in preparing his disciples to become the disciples of Jesus. John took his task so serious that he did not waste his physical substance on appetite, but kept his appetite under control. John the Baptist did not waste his time looking for the approbation of the clergy system, but rightly recognize them as vipers. We, who are given the task of preparing the way for the Lord second coming, have to become serious about the use of our special talents and work to fulfil the task given us.
Matthew 11:11 Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. 11:12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.