I remember sitting in a conference room, facing a young leader who had just been promoted. He sat across from me, eyes full of ambition but also uncertainty. “I just want to lead well,” he said. “I want to make a difference.”
I leaned forward and asked, “What does that actually look like to you? What do you really want?” He hesitated, searching for words. That moment reminded me of a profound truth: before we can lead effectively, we must be clear on what we truly desire. Jesus modeled this by asking a simple but powerful question: “What do you want me to do for you?”
As Christian leaders, especially in business, we often think we know what we need—or what others need. But do we stop and ask? Do we have the humility to seek clarity before making assumptions? Jesus asked this question several times, and each time, He revealed profound servant leadership lessons. Let’s explore these encounters and how they shape how we lead today, providing practical steps for applying these lessons in our leadership roles.
James and John: Leadership as Servanthood
The road to Jerusalem stretched before them, dust rising underfoot as Jesus walked ahead. James and John quickened their pace, their voices hushed but urgent. “Teacher,” they said, “we want you to do for us whatever we ask.” Jesus stopped, turned, and met their eager eyes. “What do you want me to do for you?” (Mark 10:36).
Their answer was bold. They wanted seats of honor—power, prestige, proximity to glory. But Jesus didn’t rebuke them outright. Instead, He led them to a deeper truth: leadership in His kingdom was not about position but about servanthood. “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant,” He said (Mark 10:43).
How often do we, as leaders, seek recognition rather than responsibility? It’s easy to chase status, but true leadership means taking the lowest place, washing feet, and lifting others up. Leadership is not about climbing the ladder—it’s about holding it steady for others. This is one of the core servant leadership lessons Jesus imparted to His disciples.
Implications for Today’s Leaders
The temptation to equate leadership with power remains strong in today’s business world. Titles, influence, and recognition can be enticing, but Jesus calls leaders to a different model—one centered on serving others. This means prioritizing the needs of employees, customers, and communities over personal gain. It means making decisions that benefit the whole rather than seeking personal accolades. A servant leader asks, How can I help you succeed? instead of How can you help me get ahead?
Blind Bartimaeus: The Power of Asking in Faith
The crowd surged forward, voices blending into a chaotic hum. Along the roadside, a blind man named Bartimaeus sat, wrapped in darkness but filled with hope. He heard Jesus was passing by and began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” The crowd tried to silence him, but he cried out even louder. Jesus stopped. He called him forward. And then came the question: “What do you want me to do for you?” (Mark 10:51).
Bartimaeus didn’t hesitate. “Rabbi, I want to see.” And with that, Jesus restored his sight.
There is power in asking. Too often, leaders hesitate to articulate their needs, seek help, and admit they don’t have all the answers. Bartimaeus teaches us that bold, persistent faith moves mountains. His story offers another profound servant leadership lesson: great leaders listen, empower, and act in faith, as demonstrated by Bartimaeus’ bold request for healing and Jesus’ empowering response. This story is not just about faith, but also about the servant leadership principle of empowering others to voice their needs and trust that God provides.
Implications for Today’s Leaders
Many leaders operate under the assumption that they must have all the answers. Admitting uncertainty or seeking help can feel like weakness. However, strong leaders like Bartimaeus recognize the power of asking. They ask for wisdom, guidance, and insight—whether from God, mentors, or colleagues. Leaders who refuse to ask remain stagnant, but those who seek help, feedback, and wisdom grow and lead more effectively. Are we creating a culture where our teams feel safe asking for what they need? Are we modeling a faith-filled servant leadership that boldly seeks God’s provision, empowering ourselves and others?
To the Two Disciples of John the Baptist: Clarifying Purpose
Two men stood at a distance, watching Jesus walk by. They had followed John the Baptist, but now their attention shifted. Sensing their curiosity, Jesus turned and asked them, “What do you want?” (John 1:38 NIV). It was a simple but profound question. Instead of assuming their desires, Jesus invited them to express what was in their hearts.
Their response? “Rabbi, where are you staying?” They weren’t just looking for information—they were seeking direction, guidance, and deeper understanding. Jesus’ response was equally profound: “Come, and you will see.” He didn’t just tell them the answer—He invited them on a journey.
Implications for Today’s Leaders
Effective leaders recognize that people often don’t just need answers—they need clarity about what they truly seek. Great leadership begins with listening, whether in business, faith, or personal growth. Instead of prescribing a path without understanding someone’s desires, leaders should ask, “What are you really seeking?” before offering direction. Doing so empowers individuals to articulate their goals and take ownership of their journey, helping us all to stay focused and determined in our leadership roles.
The Lame Man at Bethesda: Readiness for Change
By the pool of Bethesda, a man lay on his mat, waiting—thirty-eight years of waiting. Jesus approached him and asked an almost unnecessary question: “Do you want to get well?” (John 5:6).
The man didn’t answer with a simple yes. Instead, he explained why he hadn’t been healed—excuses, circumstances, limitations. But Jesus didn’t dwell on that. He simply told him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” And he did.
Leaders must ask themselves the same question. Do we really want change, or are we too comfortable in our excuses? Transformation requires action. Jesus calls us to stand up, leave behind our paralysis—fear, hesitation, complacency—and walk forward in faith. This is one of the most challenging servant leadership lessons: true leaders don’t just dream of change—they act on it.
Implications for Today’s Leaders
Change is uncomfortable, and many leaders prefer to stay in familiar but unproductive patterns rather than embrace transformation. Fear of change can keep us immobilized, whether it’s a stagnant business strategy, an outdated leadership approach, or personal growth. Like the man at Bethesda, leaders must decide if they truly want to change—and then take action. Are we willing to break free from excuses and embrace the steps necessary for growth?
Conclusion: Leading with Clarity, Faith, and Readiness
Jesus’ question—” What do you want me to do for you?”—was never mere words. It was an invitation to examine motives, exercise faith, and embrace transformation. As leaders, we must do the same. Are we serving or seeking status? Are we boldly asking in faith? Are we truly ready for change?
If we plant seeds of humility, faith, and readiness, we will reap a harvest of strong, godly leadership.
Action Steps for Leaders
Leadership is a journey that requires continual growth and intentional decision-making. Here are five practical steps you can take today to align your leadership with Jesus’ model:
- Take time to reflect—ask yourself, What do I truly want in leadership? Are my motives aligned with servanthood?
- Encourage those you lead to articulate their needs. Be the kind of leader who listens before assuming.
- Lead with bold faith. Ask God for wisdom, guidance, and provision, just as Bartimaeus asked to see.
- Recognize where you may be resisting change. Are you willing to get up and walk forward in faith?
- Commit to servant leadership daily. Seek ways to lift others up rather than striving for position.
Discussion Questions
Leadership is best refined through reflection and dialogue. Consider these questions to apply the lessons from Jesus’ interactions to your own leadership:
- Have you ever pursued leadership for status rather than service? How did that impact your leadership?
- What keeps you from asking for what you need—in your career, faith, or personal growth?
- When has God called you to change, but you hesitated? What was holding you back?
- How can you create a culture where your team feels safe asking for help or support?
- How can you apply servant leadership lessons in your business or ministry this week?
More Articles
I have written other articles on servant leadership. You can find them by typing “Servant Leadership” in the search bar. Meanwhile, here are a few of my favorites.
#547: Eight Practical Ways You Can Integrate Your Faith into Your Workplace
#517: Do You Know the Difference Between Enabling and Empowering Leadership?
#482: 7 Traits of An Extraordinary Leader Who Led Through An Impossible Situation
#480: The Right Purpose Breeds the Right Passion in A Servant Leader
#478: The Strongest Servant Leaders Are Also Adept Leader Makers
Join the Conversation
As always, questions and comments are welcome. How would you answer if Jesus asked you, “What do you want me to do?”
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Category: Relationships | Servant Leadership
“The crowd surged forward, voices blending into a chaotic hum. Along the roadside, a blind man named Bartimaeus sat, wrapped in darkness but filled with hope.” This line is a fine piece of writing, Ron. Also, I agree with “There is power in asking.” I often asked the officers and dispatchers in our police department questions about what they needed. They appreciated the sincere inquiry, and their answers helped me shape the direction of our agency and the services we provided.