All leaders fight battles—but not all leaders know what battles they should fight or how to win the battles. Paul gave Timothy instructions about how to serve others by successfully fighting and winning the right battles.

¹⁸ Timothy, my son, I am giving you this command in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by recalling them you may fight the battle well, ¹⁹ holding on to faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and so have suffered shipwreck with regard to the faith (1 Timothy 1:18-19, NIV).

¹¹ But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. ¹² Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses (1 Timothy 6:11–12).

Some of Paul’s instructions to Timothy go against the natural instincts of a leader who is faced with a battle. But serving leaders carefully observe what Timothy learned from Paul and learned how to fight by running in the right direction at the right time.

Timothy learned to fight by running back.   

Paul encouraged Timothy to remember the “good confession” and the prophecies that had been made about him “so that by recalling them you may fight the battle well…”  Timothy learned to fight by running back to the memories that would help keep him grounded. He needed to remember who he was, why he was called, and the great purpose for which he served as a leader. As he ran back, he would gain clarity on which battles to fight and which direction to run.

Some leaders facing battles run away instead of running back. Others run quickly towards the battle but lack the solid footing that comes from recalling their purpose. They run into the battle with no sense of who they are or why they are leading. Serving leaders facing any battle fight first by running back! They run back to where they get their stability and strength. They reflect on where they have come from and why they are leading. They recall their great purpose. Then, with clarity of purpose and focus, they can face the battle.

Timothy learned to fight by running away.

Paul also encouraged Timothy to fight by fleeing “from all this”! It does not seem courageous to avoid battles, but Timothy learned that some battles are won by running away! (*See note.) He needed to turn away from areas of temptation and weakness.

Some leaders try to fight every battle. They simply charge forward believing that if there’s a battle, they should lead the charge and win. But serving leaders run away from some battles and find victory by avoiding the things that lead them in the wrong direction.

Timothy learned to fight by running toward.

At the same time Paul urges Timothy to flee from some things, he tells Timothy to “pursue” others. Timothy was learning to fight by running toward what was right and good. As he pursued these things, he strengthened his leadership capacity and was better able to serve those he was leading.

Some leaders never learn to run towards the right goals. They settle for short term wins and quick success. They measure victory only by the “bottom line” instead of the finish line. But serving leaders fight by running towards the qualities and actions that will bring ultimate success to those they serve.

Timothy served well by fighting battles well. Serving leaders learn to serve those under them by knowing when to run back, when to run away, and when to run toward their battles.

For further reflection and discussion:

• How can I learn to run in the right direction when I face the battles of leadership? What do I need to run back to that will keep me grounded?  What things do I need to run away from? What things do I need to pursue? What happens when I run toward before I run back or away?  
• Reflect on those you lead. What can I do to encourage them to develop their ability to fight well? Do I need to remind some to run back to their grounding? Are there ways I need to encourage some to flee areas of weakness? How do I call my team to pursue what is good?       
• In addition to the verses we used in this issue, consider the following: 1 Timothy 1:18, 6:6-11, 20-21; and 2 Timothy 2:22.  What additional insights do you find from these verses about how Timothy fought by running?               

Until next time, yours on the journey,

Jon Byler

(*In this context Timothy was especially encouraged to flee from the desire for money.  In another place Paul warns him to flee sexual temptation (see 2 Timothy 2:22). Both of these are areas where many leaders lose the battle.)  

As we conclude this series on the life of Timothy, I want to acknowledge the hard work of those who serve behind the scenes to get these out to you! Milonica Stahl-Wert and Linda Boll both use their keen editing skills to sharpen these emails. And Brian Drewery does all that is needed with technology to get these on our websites and on their way to you. Our world is better because of many who, like them, serve behind the scenes!

 If you enjoyed this series, click here to get the entire series in one document.

In the next issue, we’ll begin a series on the serving leader and money.

We have observed several of the actions that made Barnabas an effective serving leader. As we conclude this review of his life, we’ll look below the surface to observe where these actions were rooted. In one of the first mentions of his life we learn that he was a ‘good man.’

²² News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. ²³ When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. ²⁴ He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord (Acts 11:22-24, NIV).

Barnabas was a “good man,” the evidence of his character. His character was the foundation from which all the other wonderful characteristics of his life flowed. He shows all serving leaders that serving others begins with who we are.

Character serves by signaling who we are.  

Barnabas was “full of faith and the Spirit.” This was the core of who he was. His good character signaled what he was filled with. Some leaders try to manage what people see and work hard to shape their actions, hoping to cover up the reality of who they are inside. But when the pressure is on, what is inside comes out in a harsh word, an angry look or striving for power. Actions do not determine character, they reveal character. Serving leaders focus on filling themselves with the right content. They are careful about what they read, what they see, and what they think about. They recognize that their character signals to the world who they are.  

Character serves by shaping what we do.   

“…he was glad and encouraged them to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.” When Barnabas arrived at the church in Antioch, he looked at what was happening and responded with encouragement. Why? He didn’t need to stop and think about what the best leadership response would be. He simply allowed his character to shape his response. He encouraged because he was an encourager. Great results followed, “A great number of people were brought to the Lord.” Some leaders carefully weigh potential losses or gains based on their actions and decide what to do based on how it will advance or hinder their own goals. But serving leaders cultivate good character and then allow that to shape what they do. They do what is right, not what is convenient. They do what is needed, not what is expedient. Their character helps them focus on long term gains instead of short-term wins. They can safely rely on their character to shape what they do.

Character serves by steering where we go.

Barnabas was sent by the church leaders to serve in Antioch. They recognized the goodness of his character and that opened doors for greater levels of responsibility for him. They trusted him because they knew his character. This trust lead to his next assignment. Some leaders seek advancement by carefully aligning themselves with the right people or calculating where they go based on their desired outcomes. But serving leaders cultivate character that opens doors for them and steers them in the right direction. Their character serves as the navigational tool that leads them where they can best serve.

The life of Barnabas is a case study of a man who served well because of who he was. He challenges all serving leaders to develop their character and allow their leadership to flow out of it.  

For further reflection and discussion:

• How does the character of Barnabas challenge me as a leader? What action can I take this week to be more like him?
• What am I filled with? How is this evidenced in who I am at the core of my life? What do I do to stay filled with that which produces good character in my life?   
• What ultimately shapes my actions? Do I allow my character to shape what is right to do or do I focus on how others will react or how the decision will advance my own goals?
• What guides my advancement? Is it my own efforts to plot a course that takes me where I want to go, or is it my character that opens doors to serve?
• What am I doing to strengthen my character? Are there areas of my character in which I need to ask God and others to help me grow?        

Until next time, yours on the journey,

Jon Byler

In the next issue, we’ll start a new series! It’s a great time to invite a friend to join. Forward this to them and invite them to view this series and sign up here.

As we saw in the last issue, Joshua began well in his new role by acknowledging the realities of his situation. As he began he heard God give him several promises. 

⁵  No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. ⁶  Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them. ⁷  “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. ⁸  Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. ⁹  Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:5-9).

At the beginning of his leadership journey Joshua heard and believed these promises which would become foundational to his leadership practice. God gave three promises that all serving leaders rely on, not only to begin their journey, but also to continue well.

God promises His presence.

“I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.” God promised Joshua that whatever would happen to him as a leader, God would be with him. Leaders make difficult decisions and carry the burdens of knowing their decisions impact all those under their leadership. Sometimes there are choices which need to be made which will not be accepted by those they lead. The weight of these responsibilities can cause a leader to feel lonely. But God promised Joshua that in every situation, he would not be alone, he would have God’s presence with him. Serving leaders acknowledge that they need to draw on a source of wisdom and understanding especially as they step into new levels of responsibility or face unexpected challenges.  Serving leaders rely on God’s presence to give them wisdom for the challenges of leadership. His presence gives serving leaders an awesome advantage!

God promises His power.

Three times in these verses God tells Joshua, “Be strong and courageous.”  Joshua would need strength and power for his new role. He was to lead people into a new land and there would be battles ahead. Leadership requires strength. Joshua was expected to do his part, but it would not be enough. As he began this role, he needed to be aware that he would not succeed because of his own credentials or previous experience. He needed the additional power God promised. So God reminded him the land he would conquer was promised by God and would provide His power to help Joshua accomplish the task. The mission was His! Serving leaders receive training and learn from books and other excellent resources. They work hard and do all they can. But they also gratefully believe that God has promised them the power they need to do what He has called them to do.

God promises His plan.

God expected Joshua to lead well, but He also assured Joshua that He had a plan. He first gives Joshua personal instructions, to carefully obey God’s law so he would “be prosperous and successful.” God would later add more details to this plan but as Joshua began, obedience was the foundation. Serving leaders do not simply develop their own plans; they seek to follow God’s plans. They believe that God’s plan is far greater and more significant than what they can conceive on their own.

Joshua began well by believing the promises God gave him. Serving leaders do the same.

Until next time, yours on the journey,

Jon Byler

For further reflection and discussion:

(If you are not in a new role currently, consider how these question apply to the place where you now serve.)

• In my current leadership situation, how clearly do I sense God’s presence? What difference does it make in the way I lead? Are there things I need to do to increase my awareness of His presence in my daily activities?
• In what way do I need power right now in my leadership? Do I tend to rely only on my own power or do I regularly acknowledge my need for God’s power in my leadership?
• God commanded Joshua, “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it.” In what way do I practice this in my own leadership? Are there changes I need to make to follow Joshua’s example?
• Does my leadership focus primarily on my plans or discovering and implementing God’s plans? In what way is God inviting me to learn more about His plans for my leadership?         

In the next issue, we’ll examine how serving leaders begin well by connecting with people.

Copyright, Center for Serving Leadership, 2020. 

We use many words to describe leaders. Powerful, authoritative, persuasive, strong, bold, and visionary are often used. But have you ever heard a leader described as graceful or filled with grace? Not very likely! But Jesus was a leader “full of grace” (John 1:14).

What is grace? One of the most common definitions of grace is the unmerited favor of God. It is God’s favor on our lives, giving us blessings that we don’t deserve. Grace is not something we work for or deserve, it is unmerited.

So, what does it mean to lead with grace? In the next three issues we’ll seek to discover how to lead like Jesus, full of grace.

Paul wrote words we will consider carefully: For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:8-10).

Paul wrote these words about grace to all believers, not just to leaders. But how does this deep work of grace impact the way we lead? Servant leaders first receive grace.

Servant leaders acknowledge they need grace.

Paul makes it clear that we all, including leaders, are saved by grace, the gift of God. Why do leaders need grace? Leaders are action oriented, world changers! They appear to be able to do things on their own.

But Paul reminds us that we can’t make it on our own. All our leadership gifting and capacity is not enough to earn our salvation. All the good deeds we do as leaders will not make a difference in our status with God.

Servant leaders acknowledge that they are the first ones who need grace!

Servant leaders admit their tendency towards work instead of grace.

Why does Paul need to point out that what God has done for us is “not by works, so that no one can boast”? He recognizes that leaders tend to measure themselves by what they accomplish and boast about it to others. Leaders measure success by what they have or accomplish. They measure success by the size of their vision or by the number of people who follow. All these measurements can give status to a leader, but this is not grace based leadership.

Servant leaders acknowledge with humility that none of their work is a cause for boasting. They admit their own tendency to boast of their work instead of God’s grace.

Servant leaders accept God’s gift of grace.

Paul challenges us all to accept God’s gift of grace as the only way to walk with Jesus. When first coming to Christ, most people feel a deep sense of a need for God’s grace. But with time, as God works to transform our lives and calls us into leadership, it is easy to shift our focus from the need for God’s grace in our own lives to the need other people have for God’s grace. Servant leaders remember that they must continually accept God’s gift of grace.

Receiving grace profoundly shapes the way we lead. Servant leaders see their leadership as a gift from God to be used for His purposes. They do not see their leadership as something they deserve because of good performance. They humbly learn to keep receiving grace at the top of their daily “to do” list. They pause to remind themselves that all their leadership achievements are nothing compared to the grace God has given them.

Servant leaders lead with grace by first receiving God’s grace.

Until next time, yours on the journey,

Jon Byler

For further reflection and discussion:

• How often in my daily life do I recognize that I need God’s grace? What can I do to make this a more living reality in my life?
• After Paul successfully planted many churches and was recognized as an apostle in the church, he said that he was the “worst of sinners” (1 Timothy 1:15-16). How did this view of himself shape his leadership? What can I learn from Paul’s example about receiving God’s grace even after leadership success?
• In what ways do I tend to measure my significance by my accomplishments? How does this impact my view of God’s grace? What do I need to do to turn my boasting towards God’s grace instead of my work?

Copyright, Global Disciples 2019. 

Joseph is leading at last! He’s a national leader overseeing the process of collecting and storing grain during the seven years of abundance. In the evening he goes home to a wife and two sons! All seemed well. Joseph had settled for the “dream job” without accomplishing the dream. But as the years of feasting turned to famine and Joseph was in charge of selling grain, people from other nations began to arrive. And then, one day, his brothers were in the line! Now Joseph was the governor of the land, the one who sold grain to all its people. So when Joseph's brothers arrived, they bowed down to him with their faces to the ground. As soon as Joseph saw his brothers, he recognized them, but he pretended to be a stranger and spoke harshly to them. "Where do you come from?" he asked. "From the land of Canaan," they replied, "to buy food." Although Joseph recognized his brothers, they did not recognize him. Then he remembered his dreams about them and said to them, "You are spies! You have come to see where our land is unprotected" (Genesis 42:6-9). In a moment, as he saw his brothers bowing down, Joseph saw his dream unfolding. His father, mother and one brother were not yet included. But it was clear to Joseph at this point that there were only a few more details to be resolved before his dream from 20 years before would be a reality. But this unfolding of the dream was another time for Joseph’s dream to be tested.

Unfolding dreams test focus.

Joseph could see some of the dream happening but not yet all. Suddenly he needed to decide where he would focus. For more than 7 years he had focused on leading a nation and perhaps had accepted that as God’s fulfillment of his dream. Could he now focus again on the dream that included his family or would he turn away from them and focus on his “dream job?” Servant leaders acknowledge that partial success is not a complete success. They learn to keep focused on the dream until it becomes a reality.

Unfolding dreams test faith.

Will Joseph be able to trust God for the fulfillment of the dream? Or would he take revenge and kill his brothers along with the dream? Would he take control of the dream now that he was a seasoned leader doing great things? Or would he continue to trust God to fulfill the dream? Would he step in and ‘help’ God by speeding up the process? Joseph had to remember that it was God who brought him to this level and it would still take God to accomplish the dream. Those who have succeeded in leadership are always tempted to have faith in their own ability to accomplish their dream. Servant leaders put their faith in the God who gives dreams, not in themselves.

Unfolding dreams test fears.

Did you ever wonder why Joseph didn’t go home to visit his family during the 7 years that he was free? Maybe he was trying to forget the pain of the past and the memories of how his brothers treated him. Maybe he was afraid that his pain would be released in uncontrolled anger. But God allowed the unfolding of the dream to help him confront the pain and face his fears. Servant leaders learn that as dreams begin to unfold, God often leads them to face their deepest fears. This may be fear of failure or fear of what others may think of them. It may be fear of success and not being sure if they can handle it.

Joseph took three days to wrestle with his unfolding dream. The plan he developed showed that he passed the test. He would keep his focus, strengthen his faith, and face his fears as he waited for the complete fulfillment of his dream.

For further reflection and discussion:

• When my dream begins to unfold, am I able to keep my eyes on the dream or have I focused elsewhere? Have I become content with seeing only a part of my dream come to pass?
• As I achieve success as a leader, am I able to keep my faith in God or do I trust my own ability to achieve my goals? In what ways am I tempted to ‘help’ God by speeding up the process?
• What are my greatest fears related to my dream? Is it fear of failure? Is it fear that I may not be able to handle success? How does God help me to face my fears?

We don’t expect strong leaders to have doubts. We expect them to have answers and great faith. But John the Baptist, the greatest prophet up to that time, had a period in which he wrestled with his faith in Jesus. John’s disciples told him about all these things. Calling two of them, he sent them to the Lord to ask, “Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?” When the men came to Jesus, they said, “John the Baptist sent us to you to ask, ‘Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?’” At that very time Jesus cured many who had diseases, sicknesses and evil spirits, and gave sight to many who were blind. So he replied to the messengers, “Go back and report to John what you have seen and heard: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me” (Luke 7:19-23). The last recorded words of this great leader expressed doubt. What can servant leaders learn from John about how to deal with doubt?

John acknowledged his doubt.

John received the report from his disciples that Jesus was doing a lot of miracles and crowds were following Him. This seems to us like good news as we focus on the life of Jesus. In fact, John had spoken earlier about Jesus with great certainty. He told his disciples, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). “I have seen and I testify that this is the Son of God” (John 1:34). But those statements were made much earlier. Now John was in prison, locked up, and in a difficult place. Day after day, as he looked at the walls of his cell his doubts increased. He went from bold proclamation to deep desolation. His future was uncertain, his team was scattered, and he was no longer sure of all that he used to believe. His doubt was not on a small theological issue, he was now questioning the identity and mission of Jesus! Many leaders keep their doubts to themselves, afraid of what others would think if they would expose the struggles of their soul. But John helps us realize that servant leaders can acknowledge their doubt.

John asked for help.

Not only did John acknowledge the doubt in his heart, he called two of his disciples and asked them to go to Jesus for answers. John could not find answers to his questions alone. So he humbled himself before his followers and asked them to help him by going to Jesus for answers. This is the John who boldly confronted the religious leaders of his day and rebuked the king alone. But now, in the darkness of doubt he has the courage to ask for help, not an easy step for any leader. John shows us that it is possible to expose our need and ask those around us for help. Servant leaders are able to humbly ask for help with their doubts.

John accepted the answer.

John’s question was a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ question. Was Jesus the one to come or should he expect someone else? Jesus was not surprised by his doubt, nor offended by John’s questions. Yet, He did not give an easy answer either! Essentially Jesus responded by saying, “Look at the evidence and make up your mind.” I imagine that when John’s disciples gave him that answer, his initial response was that Jesus didn’t answer his question! But John seems to accept Jesus’ answer and recognizes that answers to doubt are not usually easy or clear. Sometimes the issues we struggle with do not have easy answers and life refuses to fit into neat boxes. When a loved one dies, when someone we prayed for is not healed, or when we suffer loss and pain in our journey, there are no easy answers. Our faith is filled with paradoxes and so much that seems backwards to us. But John shows us that Jesus is present, hears our questions, and gives us the ability to accept His answers even when everything is not yet clear. Servant leaders accept the answers they receive after acknowledging their doubt and asking for help. They learn from John that doubt and leadership can exist together.

For further reflection and discussion:

• How have I dealt with doubt? Have I ignored it, denied it, or expressed it? What has been the result in my soul? How has the way I have responded to doubt changed my leadership and the way I view the doubts of others?
• What “lies” about doubt have I accepted as true and how has it changed my journey? (Consider common perceptions such as the following: “Leaders don’t question God.” “If I express doubt, others will believe I am not following Jesus.” “Jesus will be shocked or angry if He knew my doubts!”)
• What doubts do I have which I have been afraid to express? What keeps me from acknowledging these doubts? How can I imagine Jesus responding if I would express my doubts to him as John did with his?
• Who can help me with my doubt? Do I have others around me with whom I can openly share my struggles? If not, what do I need to do to develop relationships like this?
• Have I been able to accept answers to my doubt which do not seem complete? Am I able to live with some unanswered questions?
• Who do I know that struggles with doubt and how can I walk with them on their journey? What have I learned from John’s life that would be helpful to them?

Daniel correctly interpreted the handwriting on the wall only hours before a new ruler, Darius, overthrew the kingdom. Daniel was one of three highest leaders in the new government and lead with such excellence that the king was ready to promote him. This provoked jealousy among his colleagues and they tried in every way to find fault with Daniel. Now Daniel so distinguished himself among the administrators and the satraps by his exceptional qualities that the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom. At this, the administrators and the satraps tried to find grounds for charges against Daniel in his conduct of government affairs, but they were unable to do so. They could find no corruption in him, because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent. Finally these men said, “We will never find any basis for charges against this man Daniel unless it has something to do with the law of his God” (Daniel 6:3-5). Daniel led with such “exceptional qualities” that although they looked hard they couldn’t find anything wrong! Daniel’s faith was clearly evident in his work. Servant leaders can learn to lead with excellence in their vocation as Daniel did.

Daniel led with excellence by being trustworthy.

Daniel was worthy of the trust placed in him as a key leader of the nation. Kings trust very few people but Daniel earned his confidence by the life that he lived. Trust is earned by consistently displaying solid character for a long time. Without it, a leader cannot lead. Servant leaders earn the trust of those around them. Even Daniel’s enemies admitted that he was trustworthy.

Daniel led with excellence by resisting corruption.

Daniel lived and served in an empire known for corruption but his colleagues could not find any evidence of corruption in his leadership. Daniel certainly faced many opportunities to use his office for personal gain and many people were willing to pay for favors. But Daniel could not be bought or bribed. His expense accounts were accurate, his financial reports were clean. His decisions were not biased by finances. Servant leaders do not reflect their environment; they shape it as they resist corruption like Daniel.

Daniel led with excellence by not being negligent.

It would be very easy for Daniel to begin to enjoy the privileges of high office and spend his time eating and drinking at the expense of his duties. He had subordinates who could do the work while he relaxed. But Daniel did his job with excellence and didn’t neglect any aspect of his responsibilities. Servant leaders, whether in a high or low position, are willing to work hard and complete all aspects of their role with excellence.

Daniel led with excellence by revealing his faith.

Daniels’ enemies finally concluded that that the only way to bring him down was to make his faith illegal! They proceeded to change the law and the result was Daniel in the lion’s den. We often focus more on the story of the lions than the reasons he faced them. Daniel was thrown to the lions because the excellence of his work revealed his faith. Daniel was not preaching his faith in church; his life of faith was very evident in his workplace. Servant leaders express their faith in what they do every day; they put their faith to work!

We desperately need leaders like Daniel in every vocation and at every level of society, men and women who lead with excellence at what they do and whose only ‘fault’ is their faith in God. Let’s each renew our commitment to serve with excellence as we show our faith in how we work.

For further reflection and discussion:

• If my colleagues set out to try to find fault in my work, how long would it take them to find something wrong? What would they discover when they looked closely at how I spend my time, handle money, speak to others, represent my organization to others, treat junior staff, or talk about those in authority?
• In my vocation, how is corruption expressed? (Think of how people use position and power to influence wrongly. This may not always be with money.) In what ways am I personally most tempted to compromise my integrity?
• Is there any part of my role as a leader that is currently being neglected? Are there other things on which I am spending more time than I should which cause this task to be neglected? If so, what is God inviting me to do to complete this task?
• Is my commitment to Christ the only fault others can find with my life? If they went through all my possessions, checked my email accounts and computer history, dug through my financial records, checked my tax returns and talked to my neighbors, would they find anything for which I am to blame?

In the last issue of this series we’ll examine the life of Timothy, a young leader who was learning to balance boldness and humility through the mentoring of his spiritual father, Paul. He encouraged Timothy to be bold, especially as it related to his willingness to share with others the Good News of Jesus and to humbly accept the suffering it would bring. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. Rather join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, (2Timothy 1:6-8)

Servant leaders boldly present Jesus to others.

Paul encourages Timothy not to be timid in testifying about the Lord but bold. Perhaps Timothy had a timid personality or simply didn’t enjoy talking much. In any case, Paul encouraged him to “fan into flame” the gifts God had entrusted to him and to receive the boldness God desires for all leaders. He challenged Timothy not to be ashamed of the Gospel but to declare if fearlessly. No matter where we live in the world it takes boldness to publically share Jesus with others. Communicating the Gospel always elicits spiritual opposition which requires leaders of courage to overcome it. Servant leaders seek to model their faith in all they do but they do not shrink from sharing verbally about Jesus. They pray for opportunities to share Jesus with their employees, co-workers, customers, neighbors, family members and friends. Speaking about issues of faith in the public arena requires leaders of courage who are filled with the Spirit of God. Boldness in sharing is not measured in the volume of our speech, but in our willingness to speak clearly and with conviction when required. Servant leaders recognize that God has placed them in positions of influence to speak for Him.

Servant leaders humbly accept suffering for the Gospel.

Paul challenges Timothy to boldly proclaim the Good News of Jesus and then quickly invites him to join in suffering for the sake of the same gospel. Bold sharing is coupled with humble acceptance of suffering by servant leaders. They expect resistance to the message of the Gospel. At times this may be in the form of physical opposition, at other times the resistance is much more subtle. Leaders who speak boldly may be mocked or accused of being intolerant, narrow minded or old fashioned. Servant leaders share boldly but do not fight to be heard or insist on defending themselves or their message. They refuse to be drawn into arguments or defend their own ‘rights’ to be heard and understood. They recognize that the message is not about them and they are simply chosen by God to deliver it to those God brings into their lives. They rejoice when the message is welcomed but they persevere when it is rejected. They will not stop sharing even when it costs them prestige in the eyes of others, a business deal, customers, friends or finances. They look to Jesus who suffered and acknowledge that His followers are called to join with Him in suffering. Paul, often beaten and imprisoned for the sake of the gospel, calls Timothy and all servant leaders to humbly accept suffering as part of our leadership. We seek to balance bold humility as we share our faith. When servant leaders find that they are not experiencing any suffering, they cry out for more boldness!

In this series we have reflected on the call for servant leaders to possess confident boldness balanced with deep humility. Timothy, and the other leaders we have examined, teach us that it is possible to balance the two. May we each rise up and lead…with bold humility!

For further reflection and discussion:

• Would others describe me as “bold” or “timid” in sharing the gospel? What is the result in my leadership?
• Where does a leader receive the boldness Paul challenged Timothy to have? What does Acts 1:8 have to say to this question?
• Who are the people Christ has put in my life with whom I can share the gospel? In what ways have I been faithful to that calling and in what ways have I neglected the calling?
• What type of opposition have I faced in sharing the gospel? Has it diminished my boldness in any way? What is God speaking to me in regard to opposition?

The beginning of the year is a good time to set goals and look forward to what God has in store for us as servant leaders this year. I hope you’ve already thought about what you want to accomplish through your leadership this year. But have you thought about why you will lead this year? Paul addresses this in his challenge to the Thessalonians, “With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith. We pray this so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Thessalonians 1:11-12). In light of the promise of Christ’s soon return Paul prays that they would accomplish their purposes (goals) and actions. But he goes on to give the reason for this prayer–that Jesus would be glorified in them. He recognized that everything servant leaders do should be focused on glorifying the name of the Lord Jesus. Paul cites three ways that we lead for His glory.

We lead for His glory when we focus on His calling.

“worthy of his calling” Paul reminds them and us that we are called by God. Our leadership is to focus on this calling, not our own ambitions. We are worthy of His calling as we walk in obedience to His direction. His call may lead us in directions that are not comfortable for us or which do not bring prestige or recognition. Servant leaders consider their goals in light of God’s purpose for their lives instead of their own interests. Then they move with confidence that they are not simply accomplishing goals but fulfilling the call of God in their lives.

We lead for His glory when we rely on His power.

“by his power” Paul makes it clear that the goals and actions we take will be fulfilled by relying on “His power” to accomplish them. If we believe we can accomplish any goal with our own strength we forget how fragile life is and how quickly our strength can be taken away from us. If our goal does not require His power, it is likely too small a goal. Servant leaders acknowledge that success does not come by their own effort or power; it is a gift from God. They rely on God to do things which they cannot accomplish on their own. They invite Him into their business, church or office through prayer and humbly admit that they need God’s power to accomplish their goals.

We lead for His glory when we act because of faith in Him.

“every act prompted by faith” Paul recognizes that there are different things that can prompt our actions. We can act out of fear or out of faith. We glorify God when we step out as an act of faith in response to His guidance. In what area of leadership is God calling you to step out in faith in this New Year? Perhaps it is to launch a new initiative or to change directions in the midst of success. Perhaps it is to give before you see the fruit of your harvest. Servant leaders seek to hear the voice of God in making plans to act and often take steps of faith.

A servant leader sets goals that are in line with God’s call. These goals can only be accomplished with His power and are an expression of faith in Him. God is glorified no matter the outcome. Add another goal to your list: “I will lead in ways that bring God glory this year in my family, my vocation and in my areas of service.”

For further reflection and discussion:

• What is God’s purpose for my life? How do the goals that I have set help to accomplish this purpose? Are there goals which detract me from that purpose?
• To what degree do I expect to be able to accomplish my goals with my own strength? What goals do I have that clearly require God’s intervention for completion?
• Are there goals I have made because of fear? What is the fear? What is the result when my goals express fear instead of faith?
• How do my goals reflect my faith in God? (If you don’t find specific ways, take time to change your goals.)

The people clapped and celebrated, a wall was in place! The dream had become a reality, and a wall had been built. But Nehemiah’s vision did more than build a wall; like all servant leaders he built the people who worked to accomplish the vision. At the end of the project the people of Jerusalem had a very different belief system than before he arrived. What can we learn about the transformation that happens in people as servant leaders carry out God’s vision?

Visions allow people to believe in themselves.

When Nehemiah arrived in Jerusalem a poll of citizens would surely have revealed that they had little confidence that they could rebuild the wall. They were convinced that it was a task too large for them to complete. But now, they can see the wall! Imagine them giving high fives and saying together, “We did it!” People are built as leaders believe in them and say to them by word and action “You can do this.”

Servant leaders encourage people to believe that as they act on God’s purposes, they can do much more than they ever dreamed before. Servant leaders stretch people’s imaginations, not in self-exaltation but by recognizing God’s potential in each one. They believe in people because God believes in them and has empowered them to accomplish great things. When one vision is successfully accomplished people can believe God for more and are ready for a greater challenge.

Visions encourage people to believe in their leaders.

When leaders like Nehemiah guide the process of achieving a great vision, people’s faith in godly leadership is enlarged. Servant leaders allow this, not for their own ego, but to build a foundation of trust for future leaders. Ezra’s faithful leadership laid a good foundation for trust in Nehemiah’s leadership. As Nehemiah led well, trust was increased.

Servant leaders view their leadership as a sacred trust knowing that as they lead well, God can do even more in the future through their own leadership and through their successors. Conversely, if they misuse the trust of others, the next leader will have an even more difficult task. They encourage and earn trust, humbly recognizing that God plans for leaders and followers to work as a team to accomplish His vision.

Visions inspire people to believe in their God.

The wall was a physical testimony of God’s power and victory and the people were inspired with an increased faith in God. After all, the vision is from Him, for Him and accomplished through Him. When the vision was accomplished the people recognized in a deeper way the love and concern God had for them and their world. They recognized that He was actively involved in helping them accomplish the goal. This faith prepared them to take further steps of obedience recorded in the rest of the book of Nehemiah.

Servant leaders recognize that vision is ultimately not about themselves, not about leadership, and not about a wall. Rather, they recognize that vision is about moving a step closer to the world as God intends for it to be. They acknowledge that it is more than their own leadership skill that brings the vision to completion. Their leadership is only a tool to bring people closer to God and to believe in His plan for their lives. All servant leaders say with Isaiah, “All that we have accomplished you have done for us.” (Isaiah 26:12) They celebrate the achievement of one vision because it prepares people to believe God for the next one.

For further reflection and discussion:

• Am I more concerned about my vision or the people that I am working with to carry out the vision? Do I see them as gifted and called by God for great things, or simply as objects to achieve my vision?
• How does what happened under previous leaders impact people’s willingness to trust my leadership? Is my leadership inspiring people to a greater trust in leaders?
• How quickly do I point people to God as the object of praise when the vision is accomplished? Do I seek to take credit for what was accomplished?