Turn Your Leadership Upside Down – Thor
Thor begins his story as a prideful warrior—obsessed with glory and eager for battle. You could say he is looking for a fight. Wielding Mjölnir like a trophy, this was Thor’s weapon of choice, but also a symbol of his power and position as the soon-to-be king of Asgard. But his arrogance and desire for conquest leads to chaos. Tragically, he’s banished from his father’s kingdom—Asgard.
Stripped of his powers and identity, Thor is forced to confront a painful truth: he’s been using strength to serve himself, not others. Even as I write this, I feel the sting of having led in similar fashion. What about you?
Ever wanted more from the people you lead than for the people you lead?
Always delegate to people but never invest in people?
Took more credit than you deserve?
Manipulated people in the name of loyalty (ouch, that hurts.)
Thor does all the above and then some, using the power of his hammer to promote himself, build his own kingdom, and gain glory for himself, etc. Like many of us, Thor learns the hard way that true leadership isn’t about proving your worth. It’s about protecting the vulnerable. It’s not about being the strongest in the room—it’s about using that strength to lift others up. To make them better. To care for them.
It’s the difference between dominance and service. Between power for personal gain and the power of sacrificial love. To use your “hammer” not for the benefit of others but rather yourself. Think about it. Every single day you are getting urged to…
Build your platform.
Showcase your brand.
Make your voice heard.
Whatever the cost. Whoever the cost.
Jesus shows us a different way, turning the whole idea of leadership upside down. In speaking to his disciples, he says,
“The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” — Matthew 23:11–12
In His Kingdom, royalty was born in a manger rather than the prestige of a palace. Victory was found through death on a cross. Greatness was found in washing feet.
Dirty, filthy, worn out feet.
Jesus turned leadership upside down by choosing to serve the people in his care rather than use them for his own gain.
Jesus didn’t just lead His disciples—He loved them.
Because great leaders serve.