Learn a Powerful Leadership Principle to Transform Your Ministry or Business

By Dr. Randal Langley, President

There is a powerful leadership principle that can transform not only our ministries and businesses but also our lives: Servant Leadership. This principle, as modeled by Jesus Christ, challenges us to lead with humility, compassion and selflessness.

In Matthew 20:25-28, Jesus said to His disciples:

“You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (NIV)

Jesus redefined leadership. He taught that true greatness comes from serving others, not wielding power. As leaders, we have a unique opportunity to embody this principle in our interactions with clients, colleagues and our community.

Practical Ways to Lead Like Jesus

1. Prioritize the Needs of Others

Being a servant leader means putting the needs of others before our own. For example, in your business or organization, this could mean taking the time to truly understand the challenges your clients, stakeholders, or team members face and tailoring your guidance to meet their specific needs. It’s about being present, listening actively and showing empathy. Consider a leader who, instead of following a rigid program, adjusts their approach for someone struggling with work-life balance, offering flexible solutions that fit their unique situation.

2. Lead with Humility

Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, an act of profound humility (John 13:1-17). As leaders, we should approach our roles with the same humility, recognizing that leadership is not about being the best but bringing out the best in others! An example of this could be a CEO who participates in team projects and is open to feedback from all staff members, regardless of their position. This humility makes leaders approachable and fosters a trusting environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

3. Empower and Equip Others

Servant leaders focus on empowering others to reach their full potential. This means providing people with the tools, resources and support they need to succeed. For instance, consider a mentor who not only offers advice but also provides opportunities for training and development, helping people to grow and succeed independently. It’s about inspiring confidence and encouraging growth, aiming to make a lasting impact on their lives, not just to solve immediate problems.

4. Serve With Compassion and Love

Jesus’ leadership was marked by love and compassion. We can reflect this as servant-leaders by genuinely caring for our staff/team. Celebrate their successes, support them through their struggles and always approach each interaction with kindness and understanding. It’s not always the “big things.” For example, you may consider sending a handwritten note of encouragement to someone going through a tough time. This demonstrates a level of care that goes beyond professional obligations.

5. Model Integrity and Ethical Behavior

Servant leaders live by a strong moral code. We set a standard for our people to follow by modeling integrity and ethical behavior. This builds trust and establishes a foundation for long-term, meaningful relationships. Think of a leader who, when faced with a tempting but unethical business opportunity, chooses to uphold his values, thereby setting a powerful example for his team and clients.

The Impact of Servant Leadership

When we lead like Jesus, we create a ripple effect. Inspired by your example, your team may begin to lead their own teams and departments with the same servant-hearted approach. This can transform businesses, communities and beyond. For example, a business owner or organizational leader who adopts servant leadership might see their employees more engaged and motivated, leading to higher productivity and a more positive work culture. Servant leadership is not just a strategy; it’s a way of life that honors God and blesses those we serve!

I encourage you to reflect on how you can incorporate these principles into your life. Let’s strive to be leaders who serve with humility, love and compassion, making a profound difference in the lives of those we lead.

May you be blessed and inspired to lead like Jesus in all you do.