This is Part 8 of the series Servant Leadership Examples from the Bible.
In the modern business world, where competition is fierce and individualism often reigns supreme, the virtues of loyalty and selflessness can sometimes be overlooked. However, these traits are foundational to building trust, fostering collaboration, and creating a cohesive team. One of the most profound examples of loyalty and selflessness in the Bible is found in the story of Ruth. Her unwavering commitment to her mother-in-law, Naomi, and her selfless actions in the face of hardship offer timeless lessons for business leaders today.
By examining Ruth’s story, we can gain insights into how these qualities can be cultivated in the workplace, leading to stronger relationships and a more supportive company culture.
Story Overview
Ruth’s story is one of love, loss, and redemption. After the death of her husband, Ruth, a Moabite woman, faced a difficult choice. She could return to her own people and start anew, or she could stay with her widowed mother-in-law, Naomi, and accompany her back to Israel. In an act of remarkable loyalty, Ruth chose to stay with Naomi, famously declaring,
“Where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God” Ruth 1:16
This decision set the stage for Ruth’s journey to Bethlehem, where she worked tirelessly to provide for Naomi by gleaning in the fields. Her selflessness and dedication did not go unnoticed; Boaz, a wealthy landowner and relative of Naomi, took notice of Ruth’s kindness and eventually married her, ensuring security and a future for both her and Naomi. Ruth’s story is not just about her loyalty to Naomi but also about how her actions led to unexpected blessings and her role in the lineage of King David and ultimately Jesus Christ.
In the context of business, Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi can be seen as analogous to the loyalty one might show to a colleague, a leader, or even the company itself. Her willingness to put others’ needs above her own is a powerful example of how selflessness can lead to strong, trusting relationships that benefit everyone involved.
Key Traits
Ruth’s story highlights several key traits that are essential for building strong, resilient business relationships and a supportive company culture.
Selflessness: Ruth’s decision to stay with Naomi, despite the personal cost, is a profound example of selflessness. In the business world, selflessness might manifest as putting the needs of the team above individual ambitions, sharing credit for successes, or helping a colleague in need without expecting anything in return. Selfless leaders and team members create an environment where collaboration thrives, and everyone feels valued.
Loyalty: Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi is one of the most enduring aspects of her story. Loyalty in business is about being committed to the organization’s mission, sticking by colleagues through challenging times, and building long-term relationships based on trust. Loyalty fosters a sense of stability and continuity within an organization, which is crucial for navigating the ups and downs of the business world.
Faithfulness in Adversity: Ruth’s faithfulness, even in the face of significant hardship, underscores the importance of perseverance. In business, there will always be challenges, whether it’s economic downturns, internal conflicts, or market shifts. Leaders and employees who remain faithful to their values, their teams, and their mission, even during tough times, are the ones who build lasting success.
These traits—selflessness, loyalty, and faithfulness—are not just admirable; they are essential for creating a work environment where people feel secure, supported, and motivated to do their best work.
Theological Insights
Ruth’s actions in her story are a foreshadowing of Christ’s selflessness and the concept of the kinsman-redeemer, which plays a crucial role in her redemption story. The kinsman-redeemer was a close relative who had the responsibility to redeem a family member in need, whether by purchasing back land, marrying a widow, or avenging a wrong. In Ruth’s case, Boaz took on this role, marrying her and securing her and Naomi’s future.
This concept of redemption through selflessness and loyalty can be applied to the business world in several ways:
Mentorship: Just as Boaz mentored and supported Ruth, business leaders have the responsibility to mentor their employees, guiding them through challenges and helping them grow professionally. This kind of leadership builds loyalty and fosters a culture of mutual respect and support.
Succession Planning: Boaz’s role as the kinsman-redeemer also points to the importance of succession planning. He ensured that Naomi’s family line would continue, highlighting the value of planning for the future. In business, succession planning is critical for ensuring that the organization remains strong and stable even as leaders come and go.
Corporate Responsibility: Ruth’s story also speaks to the broader concept of corporate responsibility. Just as Boaz took responsibility for Ruth and Naomi’s well-being, companies have a responsibility to care for their employees, customers, and the community. This might involve fair labor practices, ethical business decisions, and initiatives that give back to the community.
Ruth’s story, when viewed through a theological lens, offers deep insights into how selflessness, loyalty, and a commitment to others can lead to redemption and blessing. These same principles can guide business leaders in making decisions that benefit not just the bottom line, but the people and communities they serve.
Business Application
Ruth’s example of loyalty and selflessness provides a powerful model for modern business leadership. By applying these principles, leaders can build stronger teams, foster a positive organizational culture, and ensure long-term success.
Cultivate a Culture of Loyalty: Loyalty is built on trust and commitment. Business leaders can cultivate loyalty by being transparent, communicating clearly, and following through on their promises. When employees know that their leaders are committed to their well-being and the success of the organization, they are more likely to remain loyal and dedicated.
Encourage Selflessness in the Workplace: Selflessness can be encouraged by recognizing and rewarding team-oriented behavior, promoting collaboration, and creating opportunities for employees to support each other. Leaders should model selflessness by being willing to take on tasks that benefit the team, even if they don’t directly benefit themselves.
Foster Resilience Through Faithfulness: Just as Ruth remained faithful in adversity, business leaders can encourage resilience by fostering a culture of perseverance and adaptability. This might involve providing training and resources to help employees navigate challenges, creating a supportive environment where people feel safe taking risks, and celebrating successes, no matter how small.
Mentor and Develop Future Leaders: Following the example of Boaz, leaders should take an active role in mentoring and developing the next generation of leaders. This includes providing guidance, feedback, and opportunities for growth. By investing in their employees’ development, leaders can build a pipeline of loyal, capable leaders who are ready to take on new challenges.
Embrace Corporate Responsibility: Just as Boaz took responsibility for Ruth and Naomi’s well-being, business leaders should embrace their role as stewards of their employees, customers, and the community. This might involve ethical business practices, corporate philanthropy, and initiatives that support the well-being of all stakeholders.
Conclusion
Ruth’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of loyalty and selflessness in both personal and professional life. Her unwavering commitment to Naomi, her selflessness in the face of hardship, and her role in the lineage of Christ offer profound lessons for business leaders today. By cultivating a culture of loyalty, encouraging selflessness, fostering resilience, mentoring future leaders, and embracing corporate responsibility, business leaders can create a workplace that is not only successful but also supportive and humane.
As you reflect on Ruth’s example, consider how you can apply these principles in your own leadership practices. Whether it’s through fostering a culture of loyalty, mentoring your team, or embracing your corporate responsibility, Ruth’s story offers timeless insights that can help you build a more resilient, collaborative, and successful organization.
References
- Holy Bible, Legacy Standard Bible.
- MacArthur, J. (2003). Twelve Extraordinary Women: How God Shaped Women of the Bible and What He Wants to Do with You. Nashville: Thomas Nelson.
- Collins, J. (2001). Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap… and Others Don’t. HarperBusiness.
- Greenleaf, R. K. (2002). Servant Leadership: A Journey into the Nature of Legitimate Power and Greatness. Paulist Press
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This series was originally published on LinkedIn as part of the Wisdom & Wit Newsletter.
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Chris Reighley is a Colson Fellow and a leader grounded in faith, family, and mission. With a career spanning servant leadership, digital marketing, and servant leadership, he is driven by a passion for empowering others. He is pursuing an Executive Master’s at The Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M and a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies from Redemption Seminary. Through Shoe Leather Gospel, Chris is dedicated to combating biblical illiteracy and mentoring future leaders.
