What I Learned About Leadership

This Week's Devotional

Matthew 20:26

"Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant."

I was asked to attend an event and give a word. Leading up to it, I was so nervous, but I kept praying and seeking God for His direction. I prayed for those in attendance that He would lead me according to His will for each of them. I prayed that I would not be in error. I prayed… and prayed… and prayed.

The day of the event, I woke up and prayed again for His direction, as if He hadn't heard any of my previous prayers. And yes, I was also fasting with a ministry family that week. Before leaving, I read my word, prayed, and prepared to go. As I drove, what did I do? I prayed. As I walked toward the room, again, I prayed.

But the moment I entered the room, I felt the spiritual shift. All of a sudden, I was empty: I had no thoughts, no preconceived notions, and no fear.

I was greeted with love, kindness, and graciousness, which I expected, because that is who this ministry is. Their Pastor and leader reflect that same spirit. The event plans were shared with me, and I was seated, and we began to worship. And make no mistake, the power and presence of God were felt as soon as I walked into the room.

As I listened to each presenter, I was in awe. In that moment, God allowed me to see what happens when a leader He has chosen truly allows Him to lead. These presenters were members of the ministry, of various ages, young, and mature, and on fire for the Lord. I could tell they were being taught the unadulterated Word of God. They were being prepared for discipleship, to walk in their purpose, and to operate freely in their ministry. Why did this matter to me… because I had not witnessed this on this magnitude before.

Over the years, I had come to know the heart of this Pastor, who is also a close friend, but this was next level. It was as if Father God was showing me His heart for leadership, and the impact of leadership that is fully surrendered to Him. Y'all, this right here, this was good fruit; this was fruit that lasts.

When I asked the Lord what this week's devotional should be, I didn't receive anything until after the event. And even then, I sat with it. I needed to be sure this was truly His direction. And by virtue of your reading this devotional, you know that it was.

The Takeaways

What I Learned

Leadership must first be led.

A true leader is surrendered to God. Before leading others, they must learn to follow Him.
Leadership is stewardship.

Leaders are entrusted with people and a portion of God's will. It is never for self-gain — it is always for Kingdom purpose.
Leadership is always in motion.

It is constantly preparing, developing, and moving vision, people, and purpose forward.
Leadership follows strategy.

There is always intention — an end goal, a plan, a direction. It is never random or aimless.
Leadership requires humility and vision.

The ability to see ahead while remaining submitted to God is essential.

I started this devotional by sharing that I was invited to the event and my state of mind. However, in addition to the takeaways I noted above, I also learned that leadership was at work even then. Strategic. Intentional. Kingdom-driven.

I pray you draw from the purpose of this message, which is to help you recognize true Kingdom leadership, leadership that is led by the Holy Spirit, so that you are not misled. Understand that there are Godly principles and Kingdom qualities you should look for in all leadership. And remember, leadership is part of Father God's divine order.

A Prayer for You

My Prayer for You

Father God,

As Your child, I am guided by Your Holy Spirit, and I trust Your leadership. As I seek to do Your will, Your way, I also seek Your direction so that I may be aligned under leaders who are truly surrendered to You. Your Word says that when we seek You, we will find You; when we knock, the door will be opened; and when we ask, it will be given.

So I ask you, Father God, to guide us according to Your good and perfect will. Lead me to those who are led by You. And if I am called to lead, let me be a leader who is fully surrendered to You, for the purpose of serving Your people and advancing Your Kingdom.

In Jesus' Holy Name,

Amen.

Keep Going. Keep Growing.

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