Leading by Kneeling

"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Mark 10:45 (NIV)

Have you ever thought about how it's physically impossible to look down on anyone when you're washing their feet?

In John 15, Jesus takes a towel and kneels before his disciples. The King of the Universe takes the job of the lowest servant and washes the grime from their feet. The disciples are stunned. Peter protests. But Jesus sets an example they will never forget.

Jesus realized that true authority flows from humble service. You don't lead your wife by towering over her. You lead by kneeling before her needs. Jesus never forced anybody to do anything. He served his way into their hearts.

Husbands, you need to have a foot-washing mentality when it comes to your wives. If you look up to your wife by serving her, she will look up to you by following your leadership. But it's not haughty leadership. It's humble leadership. 

Today’s verse explains that Jesus does not expect to be served, but always seeks to serve. When you see the dishes piled in the sink, don't walk past them expecting your wife to handle them. Roll up your sleeves and wash them. When she's overwhelmed with the kids' homework or grandkids’ events, step in without being asked. Notice what needs doing and do it before she has to say a word.

This kind of servant leadership transforms a marriage. When you serve her needs ahead of your comfort, you're loving her the way Jesus loves the church. Your leadership becomes magnetic, not because you demand it, but because you demonstrate it. 

What’s your towel and a basin today? The greatest leaders in God's kingdom are the greatest servants. Start leading your wife today by kneeling before her needs.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, give me your servant heart. Show me where I've been demanding respect instead of demonstrating it. Help me notice my spouse’s needs before they have to ask. Help me lead and love like you–with a towel in hand and humility in my heart. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.