By Erenia Mendoza
When we think about leadership, our minds often go to people with names we quickly recognize, as well as people holding positions of power: kings, generals, presidents, CEOs, and others at the top levels of their profession. We perceive them as the individuals who give the orders, cast the vision, define the mission, direct those who report to them. We regard leaders as “the boss,” people who are in charge.
However, the Bible shows us a different model for what leadership should be. In the Scriptures we have the incomparable example: Jesus, who the Bible tells us, “Did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).
True leadership does not come from a title or a position, but from the daily choice to serve. It is noticing those around us, seeing who is struggling, extending a hand to those who have fallen, offering words of encouragement at the right moment. Often, these gestures go unnoticed. They do not earn applause or social media posts. But in the eyes of God, nothing is invisible. He knows those who are “recognized as rulers of the Gentiles who lord it over them” (Matthew 20:25), and those who lead with humility and hearts of a servant.
In the Old Testament we have the example of Joseph, who remained faithful even while forgotten in prison, serving with excellence until God lifted him up to be instrumental for the people of Israel. And in the New Testament, Barnabas, called “the son of encouragement” (Acts 4:36), did not seek the spotlight, but his encouragement was essential for Paul’s ministry. We can serve in silence and transform the world.
Leadership according to God’s heart generates trust and security, inspires others to grow, creates caring environments, and forms disciples.
A recent sermon reminded me of this. In 1934, Mordecai Hamm was preaching in a tent in Charlotte, North Carolina, U.S.A. His message caught the attention of two 14-year-old young men. When they arrived, they saw the tent was full and decided to leave. But a deacon, sensitive and attentive, ran after them. He had no title as a preacher, he was not scheduled to stand behind the pulpit, but he had the heart of a servant. He found space, asked a few people to squeeze together, and secured two seats. That night, these teenagers gave their lives to Christ. Their names? Billy Graham and Grady Wilson.
For most people the name of that deacon has been forgotten, if it was ever known. But his action paved the way for millions to be reached through the ministry of the Rev. Billy Graham. This is the power of servant leadership: It does not seek the spotlight, yet leaves an indelible, eternal legacy.
Jesus taught the principle of servant leadership this way: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave – just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:26-28).
The lesson is clear: Serving others increases our influence – not for recognition, but to inspire and raise up other leaders. Every act of care and encouragement is a step that transforms cultures and sparks movements. Decide today to be a leader who serves – do not wait. Make a difference now!
© 2025. Erenia Mendoza is the National Director of CBMC Brazil and a member of CBMC International’s Global Leadership Team. She also serves on CBMC’s Executive Committee for Latin America. Born in Nicaragua and raised in Brazil, Erenia built her career in the entertainment industry, specializing in distribution and marketing for films and series. She has worked with and for major studios, including Sony and Walt Disney, and Warner Bros. across Latin America.
Reflection/Discussion Questions
- If someone were to ask you to define or describe leadership, what would be your response? Has the message of this Monday Manna changed your mind at all?
- Now consider the term “servant leadership.” Have you heard of that before? What does it mean to you, being a servant leader?
- Can you think of any examples you have encountered – directly or indirectly – of leaders who have served faithfully behind the scenes, making a tremendous impact on their sphere of influence? People who have always seemed to be focused on others more than themselves?
- What do you think Jesus Christ meant when He talked about becoming a servant to be great, and becoming a slave to be “first”?
NOTE: If you have a Bible and would like to read more about this subject, consider the following passages: Mark 10:45, Luke 22:25-27; John 13:4-17; Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 8:9; Philippians 2:3-8
Challenge for This Week
How would you evaluate yourself in terms of servant leadership? When you lead, do you impose your authority on others, or is your primary goal to serve and help others to excel in the work that they do?
This week might be a good time to pray about how God would want you to lead, in whatever capacity you have been given. Share your thoughts with a close friend, a trusted advisor or your CBMC group if you are part of one.
