Here is a well-known teaching from Jesus …
Then (the disciples) began to argue among themselves about who would be the greatest among them. Jesus told them, “In this world the kings and great men lord it over their people, yet they are called ‘friends of the people.’ But among you it will be different. Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant. Who is more important, the one who sits at the table or the one who serves? The one who sits at the table, of course. But not here! For I am among you as one who serves. [Luke 22:24-27. NLT]
Jesus was radically different than the spirit of the age. He was not a leader who happened to serve others occasionally. He was a servant who happened to lead and influence others. His motivation was always for others – for His Father's glory and for the ultimate good of those he led. How different from those who lead for personal benefit – position, title, benefits, applause or self-esteem.
It's a good practice to frequently ask ourselves 'why' we do what we do. What are our motives and what drives us? Is it all about us – or all about God and others? People soon pick this up one way or another.
Could it be that those who follow us at one time or another ask the question, “Are you for me, against me, or for yourself?” Click here to read more about this insightful question.
Leadership expert, Max DePree once said, "The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you. In between the two, the leader must become a servant and a debtor."
Seek to lead and influence others today for their benefit and for God's purpose in the world …
Being a leader according to what Jesus said and did sounds simple in theory, yet difficult to implement in modern society.
Yes, it sure is counter-cultural, Alice. Yet, many leading leadership trainers are recognising the necessity and effectiveness of this sort of leadership, Check out the writings of Ken Blanchard as one example.
Thanks Mark; am finding Ken Blanchard very interesting:)
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A servant who wants to lead and influence other people – those were very strong words that stuck to me the whole time I read your post. Thanks for posting this. 😀 It inspired me so much.