Called to Lead: God’s Servant and Their Identity

Introduction

Leadership in the Kingdom of God is not about titles, positions, or worldly recognition. It is about identity — knowing who you are in God and walking in obedience to His call. Many people step into roles of influence but lose sight of their foundation: being God’s servant first. If you are called to lead, your strength does not come from human applause but from understanding your identity as a chosen servant of the Lord.

In this message, we will explore what it means to be called to lead, the true identity of God’s servant, and how leaders can remain faithful to the assignment entrusted to them.

1. The Call to Lead Comes From God

Every genuine call to lead begins with God. Leadership in the Kingdom is not self-appointed but divinely appointed. The Lord chooses men and women, often from humble beginnings, and raises them to carry His purpose.

Consider Moses. He was a man hiding in the wilderness, uncertain about his future, when God appeared to him in the burning bush. The Lord said:

“Come now therefore, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring forth my people the children of Israel out of Egypt.”
— Exodus 3:10

Moses’ calling was not based on his eloquence or status, but on God’s purpose. Likewise, when God calls you to lead, it is not because of your natural strength, but because He has chosen you to carry out His plan.

Leadership begins with responding to the voice of God. It is an invitation to serve His people and to represent His will on earth.

2. The Identity of God’s Servant

Knowing your identity is crucial if you are called to lead. Without a firm understanding of who you are, you may be swayed by opposition, pride, or fear.

The identity of God’s servant is marked by three truths:

a) You Are Chosen

The Lord reminds us through His Word:

“Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain.”
— John 15:16

Being chosen means your leadership assignment is not accidental. You are set apart by God to bear fruit for His Kingdom.

b) You Are a Servant, Not a Master

True leadership is rooted in servanthood. Jesus Himself gave us the model when He washed the feet of His disciples.

“But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.”
— Matthew 23:11

Your identity as a servant guards you against pride and keeps your focus on serving rather than ruling.

c) You Are Empowered by the Spirit

The work of leadership cannot be accomplished by human effort alone. God’s Spirit equips His servants with wisdom, courage, and strength.

“Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.”
— Zechariah 4:6

Your identity includes being a vessel filled and guided by the Spirit of God.

3. God’s Servant Leads with Purpose

Leadership is not random; it is directed toward God’s purposes. Servants of God lead with a clear sense of mission: to advance the Kingdom, nurture the people of God, and glorify the Lord.

Paul, in his letters, often reminded believers of his role:

“Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God.”
— Romans 1:1

Paul understood his identity — a servant, called and separated. Leaders today must carry the same conviction. You are not called to imitate the world’s methods of leadership but to reflect God’s heart.

4. Challenges Leaders Face in Their Identity

Every servant of God will face moments of doubt, opposition, and misunderstanding. These challenges often attack identity. Consider these examples:

Moses doubted his ability: “Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh?” (Exodus 3:11).
Jeremiah felt too young: “Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child.” (Jeremiah 1:6).
Nehemiah faced ridicule and threats while rebuilding the wall (Nehemiah 4:1–3).

Yet, in each case, God reaffirmed His servants’ identity and strengthened them for the task. Leaders must anchor themselves in the unchanging truth of God’s Word. You are chosen, equipped, and sustained by Him.

5. The Character of God’s Servant

Leadership is not only about vision and mission; it is also about character. Servants of God are called to live lives that reflect holiness, humility, and faithfulness.

Paul gives this instruction:

“Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.”
— 1 Corinthians 4:2

Faithfulness is at the core of leadership identity. It is not enough to start well; leaders must finish well by staying true to God’s call.

Other qualities include:

Humility: Recognizing that leadership is a gift, not an entitlement (Philippians 2:3–4).
Integrity: Living in truth and righteousness (Proverbs 11:3).
Courage: Standing firm in the face of opposition (Joshua 1:9).

6. Servant Leadership Modeled by Christ

The greatest example of leadership is found in the life of Christ. He embodied servant leadership by giving His life for others.

“For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.”
— Mark 10:45

This is the model every leader must follow. Leadership is sacrificial. It is not about seeking personal gain, but about laying down one’s life for the people God has entrusted to you.

7. Guarding Your Identity as a Leader

The enemy often attacks leaders through confusion, pride, and compromise. Therefore, leaders must guard their identity by:

Staying rooted in the Word: Let the Scriptures shape your mind and heart (Psalm 119:105).
Maintaining prayer: Seek God’s direction daily (Luke 18:1).
Walking in accountability: Surround yourself with godly counsel (Proverbs 11:14).
Remaining humble: Remember that leadership is stewardship, not ownership.

When you guard your identity, you will not be easily shaken by trials or seduced by the praises of men.

Conclusion

To be called to lead is both a privilege and a responsibility. God’s servant must know their identity: chosen, servant-hearted, and Spirit-empowered. Leadership in the Kingdom is not about titles but about faithfulness to the call.

As you walk in your leadership journey, remember Moses who doubted, Jeremiah who felt unqualified, Paul who labored tirelessly, and above all, Christ who laid down His life. Their strength was not in themselves but in their identity as God’s servants.

Your calling is unique, your assignment is divine, and your identity is secure in Him. Lead with humility, serve with love, and remain faithful until the end.

“But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.”
— 1 Peter 2:9

May you walk boldly in your identity as God’s servant, called to lead and to bring glory to His name.