“Fix these words of mine in your hearts . . . tie them as symbols on your hands” Deuteronomy 11:18

What does true leadership look like?

Today's Verse

42So Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their superiors exercise authority over them.43But it shall not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant,44and whoever wants to be first must be the slave of all.45For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.”
Mark 10:42–45 · BSB

The Devotion

Jesus said there are people in the world who will use and abuse power for their own purposes. They crave power and will do anything to get it.

Nothing’s really changed today. That’s why a book titled “The 48 Laws of Power” is one of the most popular books ever. I just checked Amazon’s charts, and it was their #10 most-sold book in the world last week… over two decades after it was first published. It’s sold over four million copies and is reportedly one of the most requested books in prisons. Go figure.

We all know people who are like the tyrants that Jesus mentioned use their position to get what they want: a bad boss, a corrupt politician, even a hangry toddler.

Jesus said people who follow Him are supposed to act completely different. Instead of seeking power, He tells them to serve people.

Incredible, this is where Jesus says greatness is found: humbling yourself and serving people. Serving is how you can make a difference. Serving is how you can leave a legacy that outlasts you. Serving is how you can become a great leader.

Jesus is full of paradoxes like this. The last will be first. You can only save your life by losing it. These statements don’t make sense on the surface, but when you dig a little deeper, you find profound truth about God’s kingdom. And the divine logic of this paradox- greatness in serving others- flies in the face of all that the world says is true about leadership.

A Prayer for Today

Lord Jesus, help me find true greatness and lasting leadership by being a servant just like you today. You set the example for me, so help me find other people to love, whether I feel like it or not, or whether they deserve it or not. Help me show them your love and the truth of your gospel. In your holy name I pray. Amen.

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