If you aspire to be a leader, you will probably be frustrated, because not too many people want to be led. But if you aspire to be a servant, you will be greatly fulfilled, because everybody wants to be served!
Leadership is a tricky business. On the one hand, leaders must truly lead. They must show the way and have a measure of control. On the other hand, a good leader is a servant to those he or she is seeking to lead. The trick, therefore, is to balance authority with service.
In 1 Peter 2:14, Peter talks about kings who have authority and governors who are sent by them for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.
This word, “governors” is the Greek word “hegemone”—a word for one who is in leadership. We get our English word “hegemony” from this word—to lead, or to go on ahead; leadership—especially of one state or nation over others.
Well, according to this text, “governors” are supposed to do two things as they lead. First, they are to punish evildoers. That’s authority. And second, they are to praise those who do well. That’s service. Authority balanced with service—now that’s good leadership.
So as you evaluate the candidates in next week’s election, how do they measure up to this definition of leadership? Can they handle authority in an effective manner? And are they truly servants of the people? According to God, that’s what makes a good governor or leader.
Say—don’t just vote for a pretty face or a good TV image. Think about what kind of a leader the candidate will make.