Kingdom leadership.

But Jesus called them to Him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many. Matthew 20:25-28

Do you seek leadership? Do you crave control? Are you immediately in a mode of challenging every authority? Do you get mad or emotional when people don’t listen to your ideas? Are you always seeking to take over a meeting? Do you think you always have the best ideas and the “right” way things should go? Do you immediately take over a conversation and talk about yourself?

Consider the fruit of the Spirit of meekness / gentleness (Gal 5:23). The Greek word is prautés. From Biblehub, “In the New Testament, “prautés” refers to a quality of gentle strength, characterized by humility and a calm demeanor. It is not weakness but rather power under control, reflecting a spirit of submission to God and consideration for others. This virtue is often associated with the fruit of the Spirit and is a mark of true Christian character. In the Greco-Roman world, meekness was often seen as a lack of courage or strength. However, in the biblical context, it is a virtue that reflects the character of Christ. Jesus Himself described His heart as “gentle and humble” (Matthew 11:29, BSB), redefining meekness as a strength that comes from trust in God rather than reliance on one’s own power. For the believer, meekness (4240 /praýtēs, “gentle-force”) begins with the Lord’s inspiration and finishes by His direction and empowerment. It is a divinely-balanced virtue that can only operate through faith (cf. 1 Tim 6:11; 2 Tim 2:22-25).”

Like a child who doesn’t immediately get what they want – cue the temper tantrum. As adults we may just cue the resentment and slander. This is NOT the way of the Holy Spirit or the heart of Christ. A disciple of Christ’s life is one of humility and servanthood. Always seeking the best for others in a gentle and loving way. Do you immediately think of ways of helping someone else, and then ask them if they need help and how they would like the help? Is your pride getting in the way of listening? Do you speak before considering your words?

Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. James 3:1-2

The best teachers and leaders are listening to the Holy Spirit and giving His advice and direction, and not their own.

Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. James 3:13-18

Ponder – how has my life in the past week been one of servanthood? First to the Holy Spirit and Jesus, then to your parents, spouse and children, and then to all those around you?

How would others honestly describe your demeanor?