As our approaches to Culture and Leadership were developed over the past 28 years and I studied the Bible more and more, it became apparent that both were relating to the same things. Through our experiences with motivational speakers, leadership experts, other role-model companies, trends in leadership, the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program, and reading the latest books on leadership the connection between Biblical and moral teachings and great Corporate Culture and Leadership became more apparent.
What was very interesting to me was that many of these “lessons” were provided in Christian environments, but many were not. However, they were both teaching the same principles.
I happen to believe that the Bible provides invaluable lessons on how to live all aspects of our lives. If you don’t, the approach we provide will still work.
Here are just two Biblical verses that I believe prove my point:
John 13
12 When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. 13 “You call me ‘Teacher’ and “Lord” and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash on another’s feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”
Love is patient
Love is kind
It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud (humility)
It is not rude (respectful), it is not self-seeking (selfless), it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs (forgiving).
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth (honest).
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres (committed).
Love never fails (results oriented/no excuses)
1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (NIV)