Do you consider yourself to be a leader? If you replied no, I urge you to reconsider your answer. It’s common to think of leaders as people who have been granted a job or a title that gives them control in a specific region or over a specific group. However, the truth is that all Christians are supposed to be leaders. How? In the same way that Jesus did, by serving others. Simply put, leadership is influence, and our objective as we plant ideas and deeds into the world is to make the Lord apparent to others so that they want to learn more about Him and receive His life into theirs. Our innate human drive to control is in direct opposition to servant leadership. It’s natural to grow concerned when our children, spouses, parents, or even enemies make decisions that contradict what we believe is God’s best for them. If they take the wrong route, our worry skyrockets, and rather than turning to the Lord and praying about it, we tighten our grip. Unfortunately, when we do so, we risk drowning out Jesus’ still, little voice and allowing our thoughts and goals to take precedence over His humble obedience.

Friend, regardless of what you believe, you are a leader! Own that reality, and understand that Jesus has called you to change the world one connection at a time. It’s important to note, however, that leadership does not imply control or supremacy. Instead, it’s a decision to live like Jesus and ask others to join you on your quest to know and love Him. Your actions speak louder than your words, so try to love and over-serve those around you and see how things change.