Scripture:
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45)
Leadership is About Serving, Not Status
What makes a great leader? Is it authority? Power? Position? Simon Sinek, in his book Leaders Eat Last, argues that the best leaders are not those who take the best for themselves but those who sacrifice for the people they lead. This is not a new idea—it is the very foundation of Jesus’ leadership.
Jesus didn’t demand service; He served. He didn’t sit in a palace, expecting honor; He washed feet. True leadership isn’t about how many people serve you, but about how well you serve others. If you want to lead like Jesus, you must be willing to put others before yourself.
What It Means to Be a Servant Leader
1. Put Others First
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3)
A self-serving leader asks, What can my people do for me?
A servant leader asks, What can I do for my people?
Great leaders care for those they lead. They prioritize the needs, well-being, and growth of others. When leaders are willing to sacrifice their comfort for the sake of their team, their influence deepens.
✅ Action Step: This week, intentionally put someone else’s needs before your own. Whether at work, church, or home, take a moment to serve.
2. Protect and Provide for Your Team
“The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)
A good leader doesn’t just lead—they protect. Like a shepherd caring for his flock, a leader must create an environment where people feel safe, valued, and supported. This means removing obstacles, setting people up for success, and creating a culture of trust.
Are you the kind of leader people feel safe around? Do they trust that you have their best interests at heart?
✅ Action Step: Identify one challenge or obstacle your team is facing. Find a way to help remove it.
3. Lead with Sacrificial Love
“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13)
Jesus modeled servant leadership by giving Himself fully for others. While we may not be called to die for those we lead, we are called to sacrifice our time, comfort, and personal gain for the benefit of others.
True leadership costs something. It might cost your convenience, your preferences, or your need to always be right. But when you lead sacrificially, you reflect Christ’s heart to those you serve.
✅ Action Step: Find a way to sacrificially serve this week, whether it’s taking on an extra responsibility, giving up your preference, or supporting someone in need.
Action Steps for Growth:
- Serve Someone Without Expecting Anything in Return. Look for an opportunity to bless someone this week.
- Identify an Obstacle for Someone on Your Team. Find a way to help them succeed.
- Make a Habit of Celebrating Others. Servant leaders lift others up instead of seeking attention for themselves.
Bottom Line
Leadership is not about sitting at the head of the table—it’s about making sure everyone at the table is fed. Jesus didn’t just teach servant leadership; He lived it. If we want to lead like Him, we must be willing to put others before ourselves. This week, lead by serving, sacrifice for others, and remember: Leaders eat last.
Reflection Questions for Leaders:
- Do I see leadership as an opportunity to serve or as a way to gain status?
- How often do I prioritize others over myself in leadership?
- What is one practical way I can be a more servant-hearted leader this week?
