Lead with Humility: Embracing the Shepherd's Heart in Leadership
Adapted from: Suffering and the Supernatural by Sam Holm
Ever find yourself wondering why some leaders just don’t seem to lead the way they should? It’s a question that resonates deeply, especially when we consider the kind of leadership our world desperately needs today. In a time of uncertainty and change, the call for Christian leaders to rise with humility and purpose is more pressing than ever.
The Shepherd's Call: A Lesson from 1 Peter
In the New Testament, Peter, a prominent disciple of Jesus, writes to churches facing persecution, urging them to embrace a leadership style modeled after a shepherd. This metaphor is rich with meaning, as shepherds are tasked with feeding, protecting, and guiding their flock. But what does this look like in practice?
Peter’s message is clear: leadership in God’s kingdom isn’t about wielding power; it’s about adopting a posture of humility. He emphasizes that good shepherds—whether pastors, parents, or community leaders—should lead with a mindset that says, “I get to serve,” rather than, “I have to serve.” This shift from obligation to opportunity transforms how we approach our roles.
Leading with a Giving Heart
A true shepherd asks, “What can I give?” rather than, “What can I get?” This perspective challenges us to serve eagerly, not for personal gain or recognition, but out of love and a desire to uplift others. Jesus himself exemplified this when he declared, “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).
Consider the story of John Wooden, a legendary basketball coach known for his Christian faith and leadership. He carried a card in his pocket that read, “You can’t live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you.” This mindset of selfless service is what sets apart leaders who truly make a difference.
Demonstrating, Not Dominating
Peter warns against domineering leadership, urging instead that leaders be examples to their flock. This means leading by demonstration, not domination. It’s about showing others the way through our actions, much like Jesus did. He humbled himself, even to the point of death on a cross, to give us life.
As leaders, whether in our homes, workplaces, or communities, we are called to reflect this humility. It’s about asking, “How can I demonstrate Christ’s love?” rather than seeking to control or overpower others.
Reflect and Act
So, how can we apply these principles in our daily lives? Start by reflecting on your areas of influence. Are you leading with a heart of service? Are you focused on giving rather than receiving? Consider setting a reminder before meetings or interactions to shift your mindset to one of humility and service.
A Call to Action
Let’s commit to leading like the ultimate shepherd, Jesus. Pray for the strength to serve willingly, give selflessly, and lead by example. If you’re part of a church community, support your pastors and leaders in prayer, asking God to guide them in humility and grace.
By embracing the shepherd’s heart, we can transform our leadership and impact the world around us, one humble act at a time.
Ever find yourself wondering why some leaders just don’t seem to lead the way they should? It’s a question that resonates deeply, especially when we consider the kind of leadership our world desperately needs today. In a time of uncertainty and change, the call for Christian leaders to rise with humility and purpose is more pressing than ever.
The Shepherd's Call: A Lesson from 1 Peter
In the New Testament, Peter, a prominent disciple of Jesus, writes to churches facing persecution, urging them to embrace a leadership style modeled after a shepherd. This metaphor is rich with meaning, as shepherds are tasked with feeding, protecting, and guiding their flock. But what does this look like in practice?
Peter’s message is clear: leadership in God’s kingdom isn’t about wielding power; it’s about adopting a posture of humility. He emphasizes that good shepherds—whether pastors, parents, or community leaders—should lead with a mindset that says, “I get to serve,” rather than, “I have to serve.” This shift from obligation to opportunity transforms how we approach our roles.
Leading with a Giving Heart
A true shepherd asks, “What can I give?” rather than, “What can I get?” This perspective challenges us to serve eagerly, not for personal gain or recognition, but out of love and a desire to uplift others. Jesus himself exemplified this when he declared, “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).
Consider the story of John Wooden, a legendary basketball coach known for his Christian faith and leadership. He carried a card in his pocket that read, “You can’t live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you.” This mindset of selfless service is what sets apart leaders who truly make a difference.
Demonstrating, Not Dominating
Peter warns against domineering leadership, urging instead that leaders be examples to their flock. This means leading by demonstration, not domination. It’s about showing others the way through our actions, much like Jesus did. He humbled himself, even to the point of death on a cross, to give us life.
As leaders, whether in our homes, workplaces, or communities, we are called to reflect this humility. It’s about asking, “How can I demonstrate Christ’s love?” rather than seeking to control or overpower others.
Reflect and Act
So, how can we apply these principles in our daily lives? Start by reflecting on your areas of influence. Are you leading with a heart of service? Are you focused on giving rather than receiving? Consider setting a reminder before meetings or interactions to shift your mindset to one of humility and service.
A Call to Action
Let’s commit to leading like the ultimate shepherd, Jesus. Pray for the strength to serve willingly, give selflessly, and lead by example. If you’re part of a church community, support your pastors and leaders in prayer, asking God to guide them in humility and grace.
By embracing the shepherd’s heart, we can transform our leadership and impact the world around us, one humble act at a time.
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