5 Steps to Servant Leadership

When most people picture a leader, they imagine someone with authority—someone giving directions, making decisions and taking charge. But Jesus offered a different model. He said, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant,” Matthew 20:26. That changes everything. To lead like Jesus means to serve like Jesus. It’s not about being seen; it’s about being faithful. Servant leadership is a daily choice built on five key steps.

#1. Surrender Your Plans to God

The first step in servant leadership is learning to let go. Jesus said, “I have come ... not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me,” John 6:38. Even the Son of God surrendered His plans to the Father. Ellen G. White confirms this in Testimonies for the Church: “The path of self-denial and sacrifice marked out by our Redeemer is the path that leads to heaven.” When we start each day by asking God to lead, we keep pride in check and purpose in front. Whether you’re leading a youth group, heading a project or simply trying to be a better sibling or friend, surrender ensures the focus remains on Jesus—not you.

#2. Listen with Your Whole Heart

After surrender comes the discipline of listening—not just hearing, but listening with patience, curiosity and compassion. “To answer before listening—that is folly and shame,” Proverbs 18:13. Jesus made time for people others ignored. He listened to the sick, the lonely and the questioning. In The Ministry of Healing, White reminds us, “Our influence upon others depends not so much upon what we say as upon what we are.” When you pause, look the individual in the eyes, give them the gift of your undivided attention and truly hear them, you make space for healing and hope. Servant leaders know that being present is one of the most powerful ways to lead.

#3. Lead by Doing, Not Just Talking

It’s easy to tell others what to do. It takes more to show them. Jesus didn’t just preach humility—He demonstrated it by washing His disciples’ feet. (See John 13:14-15.) In The Ministry of Healing, White writes, “The strongest argument in favor of the gospel is a loving and lovable Christian.” Our actions are what make our faith believable. If you want to be a servant leader, be the first to take responsibility, the first to forgive and the first to serve, especially when it’s not convenient. Leadership by example leaves a lasting impact.

#4. Build Others Up

Servant leadership is never a solo act. It’s about developing and encouraging others. When Moses grew tired, Jethro encouraged him to share leadership by training others. (See Exodus 18:21-22.)

Jesus did the same by preparing His disciples to carry the mission forward. In The Ministry of Healing, White writes, “He won their confidence. Then He bade them, ‘Follow Me.’”

Leadership grows when you create opportunities for others to learn and lead. When you create opportunities for others to shine, you multiply your impact and reflect the heart of Christ.

# 5. Let Love Lead Every Step

Above all, servant leadership is driven by love. When Jesus saw the crowds, “He was moved with compassion for them,” Matthew 9:36. He didn’t lead with fear or pressure; He led with care. In Steps to Christ , White states, “Love must be the principle of action.” Love shapes your words, tone, choices and vision. It reminds people that they matter—not just for what they do, but for who they are. When love is the motive, service becomes joyful, even in difficult times.

Servant leadership is not just about what you do; it’s about who you become. When you surrender to God, listen deeply, lead by example, lift others and love well, you reflect Jesus in every space you enter. And that’s the kind of leader the world needs now more than ever.

By Renee Whiting, Southwestern Union Associate Director of Education