Leadership involves sacrifice. This is particularly true of servant leaders. To be a great leader, you must always go the extra mile. Leaders set the direction. They set the pace. Most importantly, they set the example. The standards accepted by the team are established by the habits of the leader.
A great leadership word picture in Scripture is that of “a good soldier”. This example has personal significance for many of us. We are so very proud and grateful to all the good soldiers who served our country as well as those who serve today. We enjoy security and freedom because of their sacrifice. The Apostle Paul uses the example of “a good soldier” to call us into active duty for Jesus Christ.
Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. Soldiers don’t get tied up in the affairs of civilian life, for then they cannot please the officer who enlisted them. (2 Timothy 2:3-4 NASB)
As a Christian leader, you are called to be “a good soldier” for Jesus Christ. Stand firm in your convictions. Fight the good fight. Put on the full armor of God so you can stand against the schemes of the devil. Set the example of “a good soldier” for those who follow you. Make the sacrifice and serve your team well.
All good soldiers make sacrifices to bring security and freedom to others. The same is true of you as a Christian leader in your organization. Give your team hope and encouragement and they will feel secure. Give them trust and respect and they will feel free. Your team members will be empowered and committed to do whatever it takes to follow you well if they have a sense of security and freedom. Serve them well and they will serve you well. Remember, you set the standard. Be an example for your team to follow by being “a good soldier” for Jesus Christ in your leadership today.
Finally, remember you are serving the one who enlisted you. When you serve others well you serve Jesus Christ well. Follow the example of “a good soldier” today and you will bring glory to God.
“Every soldier must know, before he goes into battle, how the little battle he is to fight fits into the larger picture, and how the success of his fighting will influence the battle as a whole.” ~ Bernard Law Montgomery