The Kneeling Leader: A 33-Day Devotional
A Devotional Journey into Humility, Servanthood, and Spirit-Led Influence for Christian Entrepreneurs
Day 10 — The Towel and the Title
Scripture (Douay-Rheims):
“If then I being your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” — John 13:14
Reflection
On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus did something no leader was expected to do. He laid aside His outer garment, knelt on the floor, and washed dusty feet. The One with all authority chose the posture of a servant.
In today’s workplace, “washing feet” rarely looks literal. It looks like staying late to help a struggling employee. It looks like listening without interrupting. It looks like defending a team member who cannot defend themselves. It looks like mentoring instead of micromanaging.
Titles can distance leaders from people. Comfort can insulate them from struggle. Success can make them forget what it feels like to need help. But servant leaders intentionally move closer, not higher.
When you serve your team, you communicate worth. When you listen, you communicate respect. When you empower others, you communicate trust. These simple acts build loyalty more effectively than any incentive program.
Many leaders fear that serving will diminish their authority. Jesus proved the opposite. His authority was never threatened by humility. It was strengthened by love.
Ask yourself: Do people feel safe bringing problems to me? Do they feel heard? Do they feel supported? These are measures of true leadership.
The towel matters more than the title.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, give me a servant’s heart. Teach me to lead with humility, compassion, and love. Help me see every opportunity to serve as sacred.
