Servant Leadership

Matthew 20:28

The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

The core of being a servant who leads is a deep, unfeigned humility. It grows from an inner self-perception which turns its back on selfish ambition and dedicates itself to the good of the followers. A godly leader does not look like someone who wants to be a renowned leader, but much more like someone who sets out to be a humble servant. The motive of the first person is to become someone great. The motive of the second person is to live out his love for God and his love for others.

Servant leaders are focused on the needs and the personal growth of those under their care. The servant identity is a lifetime identity for the leader, not a passing stage or a probationary period until that leader is promoted to a higher position. The godly kingdom leader continues to grow into greater humility and service, rather than into recognition and privilege.

As we consider our own leadership. We will do well to examine our motives, our pride, our responses to those who disdain and reject us, and our personal ambitions as leaders. If our own well-being receives more attention than that of those we lead, we can be sure we are not yet being servant leaders. If we are delighted in the growth and development of those under our care, if we use our influence and position to benefit our followers rather than benefit ourselves, and if we sacrifice our own rights so that our followers benefit, we could be on the right track.

Reflection Questions

Prayerfully ask the Spirit to guide you in an examination of your motives in leadership. Are you proud? How do you respond to disdain and rejection? Are you personally ambitious? Or, are you delighted by the growth of those in your care? Ask God to continue to grow the heart of a humble servant in you.