Subordinates should not mindlessly obey their superiors.

ADAGE

Respect the Command

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RESPONSE

Subordinates should not mindlessly obey their superiors. Subordinates who believe that their superior has not fully considered a matter should say so. But, once a superior has made clear and informed decision, the subordinate should carry it out with vigor and enthusiasm, regardless of any contrary opinions the subordinate may hold. Disagreement is not disloyalty. A modest level of conflict is healthy. Still, there are limitless ways subordinates can indirectly sabotage their superiors. Never tolerate such sabotage from anyone anywhere in your chain of command. The Old Testament can, at times, feel like one long act of disobedience by God’s chosen people. We learn from this that God is patient and forgiving up to a point, and then His “cup of wrath” is spilled. Jesus invites our prayers and petitions but expects our obedience to everything He has commanded. Discuss your concerns, decide your actions, then do what has been resolved or move others onto an organization where you or they can.

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 6:7 Serve wholeheartedly as if you were serving the Lord, not people.

QUESTIONS

  1. How do the Scripture(s) apply to the business adage?

  2. How do you deal with disobedient subordinates?

  3. What can we learn from God on how He handled disobedient subordinates?

  4. A union organizer is creating chaos and mayhem within your hourly workforce. What do you do?

  5. Several of your recent hires are vocally opposed to your decision to eliminate your DEI training and are threatening to take action. What do you do?

  6. You’ve been running your company without any religious affiliation. However, you now want to display a Bible verse on your website and delivery vans to publicly acknowledge your Christian identity. Your lawyer warns you that this action could potentially lead to discrimination lawsuits from secular job candidates who don’t get hired. Additionally, atheist employees may claim that you have created a hostile work environment. What do you do?

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Adages Worksheet 44
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