March 27, 2026

Business by the Book

Ruth 2:5 Then said Boaz unto his servant that was set over the reapers, Whose damsel is this?

Hold leadership accountable. Boaz did, when he noticed that there was a woman that he was not familiar with he asked the …servant that was set over the reapers... about her. Boaz greeted all the workers, but when he had a question about this possible intruder he searched out the manager (if you will) for answers. Fortunately, the manager had the answers as he should have, for he was responsible for all that occurred in that field.

Someone once said, “Responsibility without accountability is meaningless.”  Likewise, accountability without responsibility is unfair. To be meaningful and fair, responsibility and accountability must be balanced. Damage occurs when a person is given great responsibility but is not held, or will not accept, accountability. It is also very damaging if a person is held accountable but does not have the proper responsibility needed to affect the outcome of that which they are held accountable.

Many times the political games that are played are based on manipulation of either accountability or responsibility. Perhaps this is why many workplaces are described as a “rat race.”  Unfortunately winning the rat race only proves who is the best rat. Organizations that understand the importance of a proper balance in accountability and responsibility will not easily decay into a rat race.

Dr. Lee Roberson, a renowned preacher of yesteryear, championed the phrase “Everything rises and falls on leadership.”   This saying combines the need for both accountability and responsibility. This saying also has been proven to be true many times over throughout the years. Leaders are to be held accountable. Very successful people hire employees they can trust, clearly define their areas of responsibility, get out of their way, and hold them accountable.

When Boaz showed up at his field and noticed something out of place he did not go to the lowest rank and file reaper with his questions. He took the issue straight to the reaper in charge, Boaz held this man accountable. By the man’s answer Boaz had the right man in charge for he had the answers that the business owner needed. When issues arise that need clarification go to the one who has the responsibility for that area, this will strengthen the concept that responsibility and accountability go hand in hand, which in turn will foster mutual respect and organizational loyalty.

Dr. William Howe