Bus 621 - Business from a Christian Worldview

Charleston Southern University

Bible Character in Concert Paper

Ruth and Esther

Lisa Middleton

BUSI 621

Business from a Christian Worldview

Professor: Sharon Johnson

April 10, 2010

Executive Summary

This bible characters in concert paper will reflect six similar characteristics of Ruth and Esther as it pertains to a Christian worldview of business. The characteristics that will be discussed are humility, loyalty, integrity, listening, obedience and courage. Ester and Ruth are inspiring women of the bible that have sparked the development of many sermons and biblical literature. Many Christians apply the biblical principle taught in the book of Ester and Ruth to their lives. There are also biblical principles from a Christian worldview that can be applied to the workplace such as mention above. This paper will compare these principles in the lives of Ruth and Ester.

The Lord requires humility from His children. The bible states, "He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?" (Micah 6:8). Ruth and Esther exhibited humility as they walked out their divine destiny in biblical days. Their willingness to humble themselves to the authority of their superiors and the will of God for their lives brought blessings to many.

Ruth and Esther were loyal to the call on their lives even if it meant death or isolation. The tremendous amount of strength and loyalty exhibited by these two women has resulted in the salvation of a nation of people. Their loyalty was also reward by God with tremendous blessings on their lives. Ruth and Esther's loyalty can be an example of good work ethics to many Christians in today's workplace.

Integrity is also a requirement of God for His people. The bible states, "In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,"1 (Titus 2:8). Ruth and Esther were women of integrity. This was displayed in their strong adherence to their moral values. Their integrity also earned them the respect of friends and families in a time where men were revere above women. Ruth and Esther's integrity resulted in two books of the bible being dedicated to their lives and accomplishments.

While Ruth and Esther were humble and loyal women of good moral characteristic, they were also excellent listeners. Both women took heed to the voice that spoke Godly wisdom into their ears. This skill was important in them going forth in setting in motion the chain of events that resulted in the salvation of a nation of people and many others. Because Ruth and Esther were humble women, listening came easy to them. Listening is an important skill to acquire in the workplace.

Obedience was the foundation for Ruth and Esther's success. Both women were given clear instruction on what was needed of them to make a difference in the lives of the people that were counting on them. Ruth was obedient to the call which resulted in her being in the genealogy of Christ. She was also blessed with a prosperous husband. Esther was unsure at first, but also heeded the called that could have resulted in her death. Esther was raised by her older cousin Mordecai. She was obedient to him from childhood to adulthood. Her obedience was important to her position as queen of Persia. The prior queen was banished because of disobedience.

Ruth and Ester exhibited a tremendous amount of courage during a time when women were expected to pretty much keep silent. Both women took heart and did what was