Does the end justify the means? (82-1)
The actions of effective godly leaders demonstrate their basic understanding that faithfulness precedes fruitfulness, character precedes conduct and responsibilities precede results. Read Ruth 1-4.
The book of Ruth reminds leaders that God honors the qualities of loyalty, commitment and integrity. Ruth remained committed to doing the right thing, and God surprised her by meeting her every need and more. The book of Ruth illustrates that when leaders focus on doing what is right, God will bless the fruit of their labor. The book of Ruth is testimony to the fact that leaders need to put “being” before “doing.”
Godly leaders will have their leadership flow out of their very being as a natural outgrowth of who they are in Christ. And yet most leaders struggle at exactly this point. By definition leaders are results oriented. They jump immediately to the visible and measurable, to the exterior results that people affirm. Very few times have I ever heard someone being praised after the “big event” for their character but many times I have heard people being praised for “the bottom line results.” It takes years before people will affirm the private personal disciplines of a leader.
Most leaders agree that character is important but with the pressure for results, too many leaders compromise their integrity feeling that “the end justifies the means.” The book of Ruth illustrates God’s loving concern for people who cling to His character and promises in the midst of adverse circumstances. It is a heartwarming story of God’s tender concern and involvement in the lives of unassuming people.
Memorize Matthew 6:33 “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
