Laurie KennedyA Servant Leader serves the team as a shepherd leads the flock. I’ve never been a shepherd in the animal husbandry sense. However, I’ve interviewed several.  They tell me sheep must be led, not controlled or forced. They also tell me that if sheep are not treated well, they bite. An individual sheep or a whole herd will bite, run and fight if they feel controlled.

Quoting the Messiah, “I myself will search for my sheep and look after them” (Ezekiel 34:11). Paul says to “serve one another in love” (Galatians 5:13), “consider others better than yourselves,” looking out for “the interests of others”, having an attitude the “same as that of Christ Jesus”, who took “the very nature of a servant” (Philippians 2:7). Christ did not “come to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:28). Paul reinforces the role to be “likeminded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose” (Philippians 2:2), “keep the unity” (Ephesians 4:3), “devoted to one another… honor one another above yourselves” (Romans 12:10).

Tim Witmer reminds us in, The Shepherd Leader, “shepherds are to know the sheep, feed the sheep, lead the sheep and protect the sheep”.

Leman and Pentak in The Way of the Shepherd confirm, “To be a successful leader, you’re going to have to interact with (people) in much the same way that a shepherd interacts with his sheep”. Further, they illustrate, “the first principle of the Way of the Shepherd is to always know the condition of your flock”. Then finally, “when directing your people, use persuasion, not coercion. Instead of making pronouncements, make requests. Offer suggestions and ideas. Don’t dictate and demand; instead, advocate and recommend”.

Leaders, excel in serving your team. Look at your work and watch for Christ like quality characteristics that will improve the health and strength of your team. Give credit when it is due and build the gifts or strengths of each individual within your team.

Leadership is leading, encouraging, feeding and caring for your people.

Yours in Service,

Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach
Jethro Group