Striving to learn and demonstrate Servant Leadership is a significant value in my life. I also watch for Servant Leadership values in the people I mentor and the churches I work with.
Christ sets the example and the standard for us with His life and His teaching. “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all” (Mark 9:35 NIV), whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43 NIV), “and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:44-45 NIV). “The one who rules like the one who serves” (Luke 22:26 NIV).
Further, Nehemiah, the great builder of the Old Testament, confirmed he was a servant when he said, “I was a cupbearer to the king” (Nehemiah 1:11 NIV), Christ goes on to encourage the leader to excel, “If it is serving, let him serve” (Romans 12:7 NIV)
Then with instructions to the overseers, Peter tells us, ‘Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers not because you must, but because you are willing…eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples…be submissive to those who are older…clothe yourselves with humility toward one another” (1 Peter 5:2-5 NIV).
Christ contrasts a secular leadership style with a scriptural method when he confirms, “the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you” (Matthew 20:24, 26 NIV). Then finally, Christ’s example, “I am among you as one who serves” (Luke 22:27 NIV)
What about us, the leaders of our churches and mission organizations? We are known by our walk and evaluated by our actions. Do our staff and associates describe you as a leader who serves?
John Maxwell is quoted in Leadership Inspirational Quotes and Insights, “The first step to leadership is servant hood.”
Leadership is showing God’s love through service.
Yours in Service,
Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach
Jethro Group
ldkjethrogroup@gmail.com