The Servant Leader knows effective work cannot be accomplished alone. The results are always impacted by the integration of all the roles and relationships working together toward a common goal. “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up…A cord of three strands is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12), “In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple” (Ephesians 2:21). Further, it is the inter-working of each individuals skills, gifts, and relationships that provide the benefits. “From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does it work” (Ephesians 4:16).
The Servant Leader is never a lone wolf but follows Christ’s leadership example, including the initial development of a team, where Christ spent the night “praying to God. When morning came, he called his disciples to him, and chose twelve of them, whom he designated apostles” (Luke 6:12-13). Later, he formed teams, “Calling the Twelve to him, he sent them out two by two and gave them authority” (Mark 6:7).
Think about your typical philosophy of work. Do you actively interact and share with other resources, a head office, or your personal and professional community? A Pastor friend of mine defines his time in his role as 80% to his local congregation, 10% to his community 5% to Region/Denominational activities and 5% to his personal development activities. He now has a community of resources and people to work with and learn from as benefits of his approach.
Leadership is thinking strategically, seeing the big picture and building on the advice and resources of your networks and resources.
Yours in Service,
Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach