Servant Leadership (Part 2): Leading by example; Serving!

Matthew 25:35-40

^"35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, ³⁶ I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
³⁷ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? ³⁸ When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? ³⁹ When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
⁴⁰ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’"

Need I say more? This is the direct reflection of Christ to His servant leaders. This is also what He tried several times to show the disciples. This means doing these things without expectation of return or gratitude. God rewards us in earthly and spiritual ways; We may not see the fruits of this labor until we reach heaven.

 Our presence on stage is not a reflection of these acts. It's a result. We are placed in areas of leadership because God is rewarding our labors and entrusting us with greater responsibility. Reflect on the parable of the bags of gold just prior to the above passage in Matthew 25:14. God does not automatically provide all things to us upon bestowing responsibility. We are to grow, invest, and seek out ways to further the things God has given us. That is why it's called a harvest; not just of souls for Him, but for the growth of the things He has provided us with. This is our proving ground to make the absolute best out of what God has given us, no matter how great or small the responsibility. 

In the process of growth and expanding our responsibility/talents, God is also refining us all. To refine: to free (as metal, sugar, or oil) from impurities or unwanted material; to make improvement by introducing subtleties or distinctions(source: http://www.merriam-webster.com). Refining metal takes heat; sugar takes sifting, oil takes separating. This is a process or trial and not always pain free. The end result, however, is the goal, and is well worth the journey. 

What can I do better? I try to ask myself this question often. It's answering it that becomes more difficult ;). As I become set in my ways, thoughts, and ideals, I tend to think of this less and less. However, I need to constantly evaluate what I can do better in all aspects of my life and walk with Christ. Because, until I reach heaven, I ain't perfect, not even close. 

This all requires inner focus. Luke 6:41 "
⁴¹ “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?"  

So we need inner focus. Let us examine ourselves constantly instead of looking to others. If everyone is doing this, no one should be able to look at the other and find fault. God has called and chosen every one of you. These are steps to make us all better at what he has called us to do. I believe we need to be faithful with what we are given, so we can further serve in His Kingdom and be used as a mighty tool for His Glory. Remember, not one of us is above taking out the trash, picking up garbage, or cleaning floors. Humble beginnings brings greatness. Let God have complete control over you and keep you humble, serving in any available way. True Servant Leaders. This is the standard of excellence our team will strive for. Amen.  

I want to leave you with this encouragement: 

Psalms 18:2 The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;
    my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge,
    my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.  


^{Thank You All,
Tyler}