When we think about leaders throughout history, we examine those who have held influential positions and left a mark on society. These arenas of influence may have appeared as natural as the family to visual interaction in ministry, education, business, entertainment, and government.
Taking the concept a step further, many consider those functioning as servants who have left an advantageous impact through character qualities, as leaders who leave a legacy. The key aspect in this leadership portrayal is servanthood.
A person, functioning as a servant, remains the highest form of leadership. No matter what arena, one who looks to empower others sets the course for greatness. We see this portrayed in the biblical description when Jesus’ explained “. . . whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant” (Matthew 20:26). A servant also has a keen understanding of the approach required to position others in an environment for success.
Lastly, history has shown us illustrations of what not to do as a leader. Such as, Napoleon, who failed to translate the principles obtained in war to skills that he could apply in civilian interaction (Wills 1994, p. 96). Instead of “. . . cop[ing] with those in a new situation” as a leader “[Napoleon] was no longer calling them to a shared goal, but to direct reverence for his person” (Wills 1994, p. 97). The servant leader must remain flexible, not giving up solid principles, but adapting his approach to new situations and remaining humble in the process.
Reference
Wills, Garry. Certain Trumpets: The Nature of Leadership. New York: Simon & Schuster Paperbacks, 1994.
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