The cornerstone of the Christian Servant Leader is the personal decision to accept Christ’s gift. He died on the cross, rose again and provided forgiveness for our sin. Joshua instructs us to, “Choose you this day whom ye will serve; … but for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).
The ultimate goal is not for personal gain, achievement or success. The only goal is to serve God. Paul tells us it doesn’t matter whether we are at home, work, church or school, “Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV). Isaiah provides further direction and sets the standard of service when he said; “the Lord … formed me from the womb to be his servant” (Isaiah 49:5 NIV). Christ defined the role of service even further when he confirms, “The greatest among you will be your servant” (Matthew 23:11 NIV)
Servant Leadership is a decision. A heart felt, value driven decision to serve. Serving is an art form, not a set of rules and regulations. Developing a relationship between the leader and follower and together accomplishing the goal is the mark of the Servant Leader. This relationship is built on the characteristics of warmth, caring, love, sensitivity, dignity and respect between the leader and follower.
Those who follow a Servant Leader feel valued because of this devotion. As illustrated by London and White in Leadership Journal, Shepherd or Leader? Which is Job one for today’s Pastor? “the servant image encourages us to view leadership not as power or prestige but as service and devotion.”
In her book, the Leader of the Future, Francis Hesselbein confirms Servant Leaders take the leadership role only when necessary and only, “until a successor is identified and ready and not one moment longer”.
What life choices have you made or are you willing to make? Have you accepted God’s gift of salvation? Is every decision made for God’s glory? Do you serve for God’s glory? Are you called to lead or do you position yourself to take advantage of every opportunity for personal success? Christ set the example.
Leadership is a personal and daily decision to serve.
Yours in Service,
Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach
Jethro Group