Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153) to Pope Eugenius:

You have been made a superior. For what? Not to domineer, I suppose. Therefore, highly as we think of ourselves, let us remember that a ministry has been laid upon us, not a lordship given. Learn that you need a hoe, not a scepter, to do the prophet’s work (quoted in Calvin’s Institutes, IV.xi.11).

Now read that again. And one more time, slowly. And pray it through. Down in your soul, and up to God.

“He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30).