As a teenager, I devoured the book of Proverbs. It was my constant companion, and I read it more than any other book in the Bible. One passage that particularly stood out to me was the wisdom of Solomon. In Proverbs 30:8-9, Solomon prays, "Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God."
I resonated with Solomon’s humility and took his prayer to heart, adopting it as my daily chant. I believed that just enough was the best position to be in—no excess, no lack. But as I grew older and experienced life, especially after moving to the United States, I realized something profound: that prayer, though well-intentioned, was too narrow and selfish. God doesn't just want us to have "just enough"; He desires us to live in abundance so that we can bless others. 2 Corinthians 9:8, says, "And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work."
God’s desire for us to live in abundance is not for selfish gain but to serve others. As leaders, our calling is to be conduits of His blessings, allowing them to flow through us to those in need. Leadership is not about power, status, or accumulating wealth; it is about service. When God places us in positions of influence, whether in our family, community, or workplace, it comes with the responsibility to serve. True leadership reflects the heart of God, which is rooted in love and service.
Jesus, the greatest leader of all, modeled this perfectly. In John 13, we see Him washing His disciples' feet, a task reserved for the lowest servant. After doing this, He said, "Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet" (John 13:14). He showed that greatness in God’s kingdom is not about being served but about serving others. He emphasized this truth in Matthew 23:11: "The greatest among you will be your servant."
The essence of leadership is love. Jesus says in John 13:35, "By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another." This love starts within our families—the core unit of society and God’s church. If we can't serve those closest to us, how can we serve anyone else? Leadership begins in the home, where we nurture and build the foundation for serving others beyond it.
When I first arrived in the United States at the age of 20, I realized that God was positioning me for leadership, not for my benefit but for the benefit of others. My prayer changed. I no longer prayed for just enough to get by. Instead, I asked God to make me a well of blessing that never runs dry. And He has been faithful. As He continues to bless me, I am grateful for the opportunity to be a blessing to others.
Leadership is not a title or position; it is a responsibility. And that responsibility is service. In Matthew 25:21, we read the words we all hope to hear at the end of our lives: "Well done, good and faithful servant." Notice the word “servant.” God values servant leadership above all else. If we can serve faithfully, with love and humility, then we fulfill the purpose for which we were created.
As you lead—whether in your family, your job, or your community—remember that God has placed you there not for your gain but to bring hope, love, and light to those around you. Be a servant, recognizing the great responsibility that comes with leadership. Let your prayer be one of abundance, not for yourself, but so that you may overflow into the lives of others. And as you do, God will continue to bless you, so you can be a blessing to many.