Serving Leadership's Directional Journey

The Serving Leadership Journey embraces three directional shifts: 1) From inside to out , 2) From private to public , and 3) From less to great. Serving leadership begins with you in terms of developing your character and competence. Only then can you lead others as someone worth following.

Note that between the ages of 12 and 30, Jesus increased in favor with both God and people (Luke 2:52). His growth on the inside determined his outward impact. While little is said about his preparation for ministry, we can be sure that there was no time wasted in those silent years before he went public.

Matthew 4:1-11 records how Jesus became a leader worth following by overcoming the temptations. Immediately following his wilderness struggle, the disciples embraced his call to drop everything and follow him (Matthew 4:18-22). They were honored that this young man from Nazareth had chosen them and immediately left family, financial security and all that was known to enter a world of risk and uncertainty.

Secondly, as Jesus’ leadership influence grew, his ministry also became more public (Matthew 4:24-25). He moved out of the private sphere of Nazareth to proclaim the Kingdom of God in broader contexts.

Thirdly, Jesus' influence moved from less to great. He stewarded and leveraged his time, energy, and gifts for maximum impact. All leaders start out with some gifts and responsibilities but are given more based on how well they steward what they already have (see Matthew 25:14-30 & Luke 16:10).

While we should not seek greatness or publicity, a focus on inner development will move us in that direction. If we truly lead ourselves well it ensures that "greatness" remains focused on our mission and not on building our image. Finally, self-leadership also prepares us for the public sphere where so many leaders have tripped up. Andy Stanley drives this point home when he states, “Your talent and giftedness as a leader have the potential to take you farther than your character can sustain you. That ought to scare you.”​

[Next week we will revisit the four phases of the Serving Leadership Journey.]