“Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.”
– Paul of Tarsus, apostle of Jesus Christ, Letter to the Philippians 2:4, c. AD 62.
In positions of responsibility, in instances of oversight, the importance of good leadership cannot be understated. Take the time to invest in those around us. It directly translates to future return in investment.
Good leadership is inspirational when it comes to creativity and exemplary when it comes to work ethic:
“Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.”
– Marcus Aurelius, Roman emperor and philosopher (AD 121–180), Meditations, Book X, 16.
We can understand the principle in the context of a farmer and his animals. His good qualities are seen in how he treats his animals, which he must ultimately depend on for various purposes, whether transport or labour. Caring for their interests is directly connected to caring for his own.
“A righteous man is concerned for the life of his beast; but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.”
– King Solomon (10th century BC), Book of Proverbs 12:10.
“Be well acquainted with the appearance of thy flock; look well to thy herds:”
– King Solomon (10th century BC), Book of Proverbs 27:23.
This is realized, for example, when we ask about someone’s well-being or ensure that their hard work is duly compensated without delay.
“Thou shalt not muzzle the ox when he treadeth out the corn.”
– Moses, Hebrew prophet who led the Hebrew nation out of bondage in Egypt (15th century BC), The Fifth Book of Moses, called Deuteronomy 25:4.
“Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thy hand to do it.”
– King Solomon (10th century BC), Book of Proverbs 3:27.
“The workman is worthy of his hire.”
– Jesus of Nazareth, Christ of God, Luke 10:7.