The Challenges of a Servant of God

Lone tree on a grassy hill overlooking rugged mountains and lakes with dramatic clouds

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Quite often my friend Stacey reminds us that “It is not easy, but it is durable.” In this post, I ask you, “Is it durable?”

I believe that we stand in agreement that a Servant of God has challenges. Life is challenging, yes! Still, how durable is life as a Servant of God?

Count it All Good

First of all, the scripture of James 1:2-4 (count it all joy) is a familiar and quoted one among believers. However, I believe the mindset must agree with the spirit in order to do just that. How can I feel joy in the midst of my troubles? Moreover, how can you express joy in the midst of challenges? Emphatically, God is not asking us to do more than we are capable of. In fact, what he wants from us, is trust. Trust him during these times. That can make the situation DURABBLE!

Additionally, having a capable mentoring group or circle of friends, who fear God, will lighten your burdens. That small group of friends will share experiences that give support and relieve much of the stress that otherwise you would endure alone.

Thirdly, look for things that will make you laugh in those times. Laughter is good for the soul. Proverbs 17:33 speaks how good it is to have a spirit of laughter.

Approval

Whose approval are you looking for? In the process of life, we want the approval of others. That is normal. However, be honest and ask, “Whose approval do I really need?” As a Servant of God, his approval matters most!

In serving God, his ways will really surprise you. Because of your transformation, God’s strategies will change how you now handle situations. For instance, before transformation, your heart was hardened. Do you remember how Saul was changed to Apostle Paul? In this instance, you see how transformation in the heart brings Paul to seek God’s approval more than any man. Thus, consider the situation or challenge, and seek God’s wisdom for pleasing Him. Again, that makes it DURABLE!

Control

Finally, we like to be in control. Hence, challenging situations makes us feel out of control and uncomfortable. It is impossible to be in control of everything in your life. A good example of being out of control is that of a fig tree. The fig tree must have certain conditions to grow. It needs sunlight, soil and water. But it can only grow under certain conditions. For instance, the soil must be well-drained. Although it needs water, overwatering will damage the root. It needs the sunlight, but the branches require protection from the sun’s harshness. Thus, the fig tree must rely upon the control of the Creator to flourish and bear fruit. In making of the tree, it is the Creator who knows and understands the hard and dry seasons of the fig tree.

One such writer, Habakkuk, wrote that although the fig tree has no blossoms, and no fruit is on the vines, I will rejoice in my connection to the Lord – my salvation. How can he do must a thing? Habakkuk recognize s that God is always in control. Whether in dry challenging seasons, God has you (Habakkuk 3:17). He knows what it takes to make you grow to meet your challenges.

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June 5, 2026

Leaders Must Avoid Dangerous Reefs in Business

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Leaders must avoid the dangerous reefs. This is to be aware of dangerous reefs because they can shipwreck you! Jude only wrote one chapter scripture, but the lessons in his text are powerful. Let us begin with understanding a little about his analogy of leaders and dangerous physical reefs. Where are your reefs?

Marine Life and Reefs

First, we draw your attention to the physical meaning of reefs. Marine shipwrecks, created by humans, become artificial reefs. The ideal is to allow shipwrecks or wreckage to lie undisturbed on the ocean floor. Of course, this impacts marine life. There are similarities and differences in marine life between shipwrecks, which serve as artificial reefs, and natural reef habitats. Both artificial and natural spaces provide a home for fish, algae, and other living organisms. However, researchers found a difference in the organisms that gather around a shipwreck compared to those in natural spaces. For instance, the production of fish varieties increases around artificial reefs in comparison to natural habitats.

Although the intentional submersion of large objects in oceans has long been a practice of humans, this activity alters the ecosystem of marine life. The result is also a change in ocean composition. For example, chemical changes occur in the ocean’s water. As a result, these submersions alter the natural habitat, even at a distance from the shipwreck.

Exposure to Environmental Risks

Another consideration regarding reefs is the impact on air quality from shipwrecks used as artificial reefs. Even though researchers find some ecological benefits to artificial reefs, there are environmental risks that must not be ignored. In fact, our human lives depend on good air quality. Marine life is important to the air we breathe because oceans release oxygen. Ships consist of materials such as wood and metal. They decompose. Sinking ships can damage the natural habitats of our beautiful system of coral reefs (Shipwrecks As Artificial Reefs) and carry oil pollutants, bacteria, and other contaminants into the water supply. This process thereby influences the breakdown of photosynthesis and air quality.

Dangerous Human Reefs

Spiritually, Jude compares this phenomenon to ministry leadership. He uses this as an analogy to warn church leaders about the impact of human reefs. He warns the leaders about fellowship with humans who are like dangerous reefs (Jude 1:12). In his words, they care only for themselves. As trees in autumn, they do not bear fruit because they do not plant in soil that produces strong roots (Jude 1:13). In fact, these people are grumblers and complainers, and they operate as flatterers to get what they want (verse 16). Moreover, dangerous human reefs divide people. They carry pollutants and contaminate. Therefore, as a leader, the question becomes, “How should a leader respond to dangerous human reefs among you?”

Dealing with Human Reefs

Jude, as a leader, deals with this from a spiritual yet intelligent response. Further in the text, he offers these suggestions for caring for the people that they lead. Leaders:

build each other up
pray in the power of the Holy Spirit
remain faithful
show mercy to those who faith is wavering
rescue others by snatching them from such flames of judgment

Yet, leaders ask, “What does this leadership look like in your natural world?” Successful companies in the business world recognize the value of good leadership traits. Although the terminology differs, the concept is the same for the servant leader. The mindset is scripturally grounded.

In the article “To Be a Leader, Model These 9 Traits” by Forbes Magazine, the view of a servant leader emphasizes spiritual connections. For instance, these leaders are self-aware, accountable, ask powerful questions, generous, and are change agents. Their focus is to serve others. Discern. Check your mindset to ensure that you recognize dangerous human reefs and act within the boundaries of wisdom.

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October 22, 2025

The Servant Leadership NOW Group

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Who is The Servant Leadership NOW Group? The Servant Leadership NOW Group is a private Facebook group. It is a collective support system for growth. The Servant Leadership NOW Group consists of believers in Christ Jesus. The people are from different places of worship geographically. Additionally, it serves as a support system that fosters mutual accountability and respect – a safe space. Why? Simply, we all face trials and tribulations in this world. One of the reasons for our existence is to consistently pray for one another through small prayer groups. Second, whether we are in the United States or across borders, our shared mission is to bring others to Christ. How is this done?

Group Administrator

The group administrator monitors the posts. It is essential to protect and consider the content. Messages are meant to encourage and not lose sight of purpose. Within the group, there is a belief that we can be more productive at times as a small group. The smaller groups provide safe spaces for members to share as a central ministry unit. For example, prayer circles are personal yet pray for the corporate body of Christ. Members who are not a part of a daily prayer group can view other members’ prayer sessions through Facebook. The Group Administrator can share these times with members.

Makeup of the Team

Another important factor is that, with the exception of a few, each member of this group is personally known by the group administrator. All members have the expressed means to share with others outside of the group. They also have the means to request that others join based on the group’s focus and accountability. However, a person who makes such a request must personally know the individual. Know your circle of friends!

Quality Over Quantity

In this season, there is a lot of talk about statistics. However, it is the mission of The Servant Leadership NOW Group to not neglect that the focus is ministry. Ministry is to serve others. Everything must be done to serve others. Content is through the Scriptures to move others to mature and grow in Christ. It pleases the Lord when one comes to Him. Therefore, a lost sheep, when he is found, means more. Truly, it is easy to lose sight of the desire to increase stats. But God favors “Quality over Quantity.”

Finally, the ministry of working together is meant to fulfill and mature in kingdom work.

We invite you also to listen to this Playlist of Songs on our YouTube Channel for encouragement. For more blogs like this, we also suggest:

#servantleader #servantleadership #TheServantLeadershipNOWGroup #playlists #leadership

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September 24, 2025

Unlikely Servant Leaders

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Moses

Moses is often cited as a well-known, unlikely servant leader example. His calling was from God (Exodus 3:1-12). When Moses was called to lead, the Scripture tells us that he was not over-joyed for several reasons. First of all, he had murdered an Egyptian soldier. Second, Moses felt inadequate to lead because of a speech impediment. But his reason can be a reminder that whatever our imperfections, God is our strength – Our Source – Our El Shaddai. Knowing this brings comfort. Take the view that this is an opportunity to walk in your purpose. He can remove the anxiety to help you step up to your assignment. God is able and willing to provide the resources for our assignments (God even sent Aaron as a support to Moses).

More than that, keep in mind that Moses was the designated leader. The assigned purpose – lead the children of Israel out of slavery into the Promise Land, Exodus. What it must have felt like for Moses to meet God face-to-face! Even the miraculous signs were that of God’s performance through him. Yes, an imperfect man called by the Perfect God!

Leadership by God is for the Kingdom of God!

Ruby – Servant Leaders: Required Forgiveness

Please God try to forgive those people.  Because even if they say those bad things, they don’t know what they’re doing. So, You could forgive them, just like You did those folks a long time ago 
When they said terrible things about You.  - 
-Ruby Bridges

This was the daily prayer of a little girl from the South, Ruby Bridges, as she faced a mob while she walked to school. Simply because they did not want her to integrate their school. Although she was forced to comply to a court order, it made no difference to them. The hate was larger than their love. Her skin color was problematic to them. But for this kindergartener trusted that God was greater than any hate and anyone. In fact, she said this was a lesson she learned from her Sunday School teacher and parents. For as much, she did not consider herself brave; rather, she considered herself loved by God and God loved everyone.

Her stance – trust in God will see her through.

Oprah Among Unlikely Servant Leaders

Unlikely leaders are identifiable by how they treat others. Even though your resume by man’s standards is not reflective of your potential, remember the Creator knows your very substance. Read this person’s resume:

As a young child, this resume read:

Born in poverty in rural Kosciusko, Mississippi in 1954
Named after the biblical figure in the Book of Ruth (Orpah)
Born out of wedlock to a teen-age mother and young father
Learned to read by age 3
Raised by a God-fearing, abusive grandmother until the age of 6
Relocated to Milwaukee, Wisconsin to live in a single-parent home
Raped by a cousin at the age of 9
Continued physical and sexual abuse by other male relatives and Mother’s boyfriend
Ran away from home at the age of 13
Became pregnant at the age of 14; child died after giving birth
Sent to live with strict father and stepmom in Nashville, Tennessee

In contrast to man’s standards, this does not seem to be the resume of a billionaire woman. Yet it is. It is the beginnings of a media mogul, Oprah Winfrey.

In summary, examples of servant leaders are ordinary people who must fulfill purpose by the faithful God. Click here for more about this subject – do not fret for you will prevail.

“A servant leader must not forget that leadership is for the Kingdom of God.” – Bulluck

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The blessed brings forth fruit in its season. Their leaf do not wither. Whatever that person goes, there is prosperity. It is more than financial and material possessions. That is not that person’s value. It is more than silver, gold, or rubies. It is joy. That person knows where their wealth comes from. The Lord provides all of their needs. Their trust in the Lord is true prosperity. It does not cease. It is incorruptible.

July 23, 2025

Break the Mold

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Why break the mold? Breaking the mold defines who you are. We often hear and say these words, but do you truly believe it? Do you believe that each step you take leaves a footprint on your journey toward your promise? Even your fingerprint is unique to you, unlike anyone else’s. Accordingly, breaking the mold is a deliberate act for you from the beginning.

The Mold – Deliberate in Time

First, you are in the realm of what is called “time.” Creatively, the designer intentionally places you within the framework of time. Designing for you was a pleasant experience. Moreover, to elevate God’s purpose, time is a part of your process (Ecclesiastes 3:1). It is the concept that you will operate to fulfill His plan. This means it will be given to you at the appointed time for the designated individuals to complete the assigned tasks. The designer did not make a mistake. Even though leaving certain things in the past to accomplish tasks is part of the reasonableness of time. God wants to break the mold. He is the one who wants to make our efforts successful (Psalm 90:17) and knows your season. To him, a thousand years is equal to one day (Psalm 90:4).

The Mold as Ripe Fruit

Ripe fruit is sweet to the taste. At certain times, it is ready to harvest. Since the planter knows its harvesting season, the fruit is now ready for use. For the individual, refreshing oneself is like ripening a fruit. Thus, relying on the designer to plant you in the right place at the right time will yield sweet fruit. Thus, you break the mold. You are different!

Mold Imitation

Striving to imitate another person will diminish your potential as an original. Although you may sprout, you will not come to full bloom. You will not blossom so that others may grow better. You are better when you grow others around you. Furthermore, nothing beats the sight of an original. It leaves a legacy. It is timeless. Equally important to the value of an original experience. For instance, people listen to the original’s lessons and experiences. Others learn from those experiences. It is the original steps that give others the appreciation of others, not the imitation.

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July 14, 2025

Servant In the Courtroom

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

By now, if you follow me, you understand my passion to encourage. Like many, when I was growing up in church, those in leadership positions were pressed to serve. Serve the church and serve others in the community. The definition of a church leader was service. Church members voted for different positions. Authorization came from them. The words, “Enter to worship, Depart to Serve,” were often stressed at the end of each worship service. Decades later, those words were also inscribed on the church bulletin. In ministry, I still meet people today with similar backgrounds from different countries with that definition of servant. The ideal servant leader will meet the need.

Servant Leaders Meet the Need

Apostle, Bishop, Pastor, Elder, Minister – The most important title you will have been “Servant.”

In spite of opinions in the courtroom, facts matter. Consequently, the goal of courtroom proceedings is to serve equal justice. Human justice, of course, is flawed. Because humans are flawed. Although many people do not always recognize it, God’s system is at work every day. Every day, God extends new mercy. And he loves justice. For it is written in Isaiah 61:8: “For I, the LORD, love justice; I hate robbery and iniquity and Psalm 11:7: “The Lord is righteous, he loves justice.”

The Job of a Servant Leader

The job is to serve the needs of others. If you need food and I am able to support the need, and I refuse, then I haven’t served you effectively. Jesus came because we had a need for salvation. It is out of the need to save us, to give salvation, that Jesus gave his service. He spoke about needs by teaching parables (Matthew 25). The hierarchy of needs consists of both physical and spiritual. If we are not serving the NEED(s) of people, we are not on God’s agenda.

What Becomes of the Servant?

There is an appointed time of judgment in God’s court. What did the servant do on earth? The servant saw hunger, sickness, and more. The Lord’s reply was this, “Whenever you saw such, you did something about it (Matthew 25:35-40). In the final judgement, God will NOT ask about earthly titles. Thereupon, there will be order in His court. He will judge each by His merits. In His court, only the title of Servant will matter.

Therefore, one day, God will hold a great court session. Facts matter, not opinion, in His court. God knows all the facts. Each of us will stand before that Great Judge. Now, as a servant today, be reminded of 1 John 5:21, which tells us to keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your heart. For the words you want to hear are, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things. I will make you ruler over many things. Enter thou into the joy of the Lord, Matthew 25:21.”

Other Related Posts at:

Servant Leadership NOW: "Stepping Up Your Leadership Call"

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July 3, 2025