I loved Elder Stephen W. Owen’s description of true leadership:

“The world teaches that leaders must be mighty; the Lord teaches that they must be meek. Worldly leaders gain power and influence through their talent, skill, and wealth. Christlike leaders gain power and influence ‘by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned.’

In God’s eyes, the greatest leaders have always been the greatest followers.”

Jesus Christ was a failure according to many of the standards of the world. He only led a small group of loyal followers. He purposefully rejected the throng who tried to push him to armed revolt. In his moment of need his followers even deserted him.

But Christ taught transformative truth that penetrated the heart. And he led by showing the way. He was exactly who he said others should become. He was the ultimate exemplar to follow. And he led through long suffering, patience, and kindness. He led his disciples line-upon-line. He was there with them as they slowly gained greater understanding and became true disciples.

Christ’s leadership contrasts with Satans. In fact the two are diametrically opposed forms of leadership. Satan promises much and delivers little. He is full of bombastic guarantees but utterly bankrupt. He forces, cajoles, and seeks to overcome the will. 

In our interactions with others and especially those we care about most, we must try to emulate the leadership style and character of the savior rather than the adversary.