And [then] when the Chief Shepherd is revealed, you will win the conqueror’s crown of glory. 1 Peter 5:4 (AMPC)
Though here Peter is talking to the elders or leaders in the Church concerning servant leadership (1Peter 5:1-3), yet all of us in the body of Christ are addressed regarding carrying out our designated responsibilities for the building up and growth of everyone in the body.
When we each heartily, faithfully, and diligently stand and function in our various callings, giftings and abilities for the wellbeing and advancement of others we will receive from God a conqueror’s crown of glory. This is the honor and greatness that God personally confers on those who serve others.
Mark 10:42-45 (NLT) 42 So Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. 43 But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. 45 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
We do not follow and serve God in vain. For everything He has called us to do He’s got a reward for us. God is a rewarder of those who diligently walk and work with Him-Hebrews 11:6.
Scripture calls these rewards from God crowns. Royals, celebrities, those who have won in contests of various disciplines, those who have performed notable deeds, are all crowned in acknowledgement and honor of who they are and what they have accomplished.
Likewise God honors those who honor Him by serving him through serving others.
The conquerors crown that God gives us is first the unspeakable joy, incomparable honor and indescribable satisfaction of having been and played a part in the wellbeing, growth, and advancement of others. This is much like the experience of successful parents, teachers, coaches, event organizers, cooks, entertainers, surgeons, hairdressers, or advocates. They get and walk on cloud nine not because of what they themselves have personally attained but rather because of what they’ve helped others attain.
Then there’s the appreciation, recognition, promotion, influence and greatness that attends true selfless servant leaders.