Bloodline: Spiritual DNA of a Kingdom WarriorSample

Day 7:

Leader

Leadership, in its simplest form and definition, is influence. Yet, somehow society has allowed influence to trump and precede true, servant leadership. It is clear that social media designates the magnitude of influence by a number of friends, followers, subscribers, etc. Influencers are not always good leaders, but good leaders always have influence. In just a few decades, our culture has managed to broaden the chasm between the original blueprint of noble, honorable leadership and the reality of its tainted complexion today. The good news is we are all called to serve, and we are all called to lead. Thankfully, we have a timeless user guide that graciously and thoroughly outlines a leadership model that never depreciates or expires. God’s word is the lamp to our feet and the light to our path in all things (Psalm 119:105).

Look no further for leadership perfection than Jesus Christ. As kids, many of us idolized the star athlete, Hollywood performer, or even a prominent family member. Most of us can relate to a time in our childhood where we pretended to be someone whose behavior or accomplishments we held in high regard. As adults, there’s no time to waste when it comes to identifying worthy heroes we can mimic. In order to re-gain right perspective on the epitome of servant leadership, it’s time we idolize and emulate the first and best at modeling it. Jesus knew that leadership was less about His title and influence and more about teaching and empowering others to serve. He was intentional about exhibiting grace and articulating truth to His disciples, regardless of their feelings or their fears. Jesus never lost sight of the mission to reach lost people and encourage them with the love of His Father in Heaven (tough love if necessary).

Words to live by are God-inspired words. His manual and roadmap is alive and breathing, still imparting profound wisdom in every area of our lives. Servant leadership is a foundational pillar within the framework of worthwhile, impactful influence. If you’re reading this, you want to be a difference maker in someone’s life, and your desire is to leave a lasting legacy of love, encouragement, and service. At its core, our bloodline and our inheritance is a life of servant leadership with an eternal perspective. Our role as Christ followers is to love God and to love others. When we serve, we connect. When we connect, we earn trust. When we are trusted, we can equip, encourage, and empower others to influence the Kingdom. Wasn’t that God’s design for leadership? Wasn’t that who He called us to be and how He intended His family to grow? We have a responsibility to carry that torch and honor our bloodline.

Ask Yourself:

What is my definition and application of servant leadership?

Connect with the author at lastinlineleadership@gmail.com