Journal entry

Reflection on Biblical Leadership and Corporate Culture

“Whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve…”
— Mark 10:44–45

This verse reflects my core belief about what true leadership is, based on biblical principles. I’m writing this journal entry because ever since I started my new job, I’ve begun to see and hear things about the company’s operations that strongly contrast with what I understand about leadership from a biblical perspective.

As this passage from Mark makes clear, a true leader is a servant. Leadership is not about being above others, but about caring for them. Serving others expresses love, compassion, kindness, and gratitude—essential values for any healthy community or organization. This applies to the business world as well. Leaders in companies—CEOs, executive managers, directors, and department heads—should dedicate themselves to stewardship, remaining humble and leading by example.

Unfortunately, in today’s corporate culture, this biblical principle is often missing. Many leaders display their authority with arrogance, managing by intimidation, harsh words, or belittling behavior. Employees are left stressed, discouraged, and undervalued. Even when there’s no direct abuse, a culture of flattery and fear often takes over, with workers feeling they must constantly lift up their superiors just to avoid reprimand.

Why must employees treat their bosses like royalty? Why is humility seen as weakness while pride is rewarded? Sadly, this seems to be a lingering effect of Japan’s old feudal mentality, which remains deeply embedded in our social structure—even long after the shogunate era ended. I find this deeply troubling. And yet, as long as I’m part of this company, I can’t simply run from it.

Many employees voice their frustration. Bitterness spreads. And still, no real reform happens under ineffective management. The talents of dedicated workers are wasted, and resignations are frequent. It breaks my heart to witness this.

More than that, it makes me concerned about my own future. The president and board keep pushing for higher profits. But how is that possible when experienced staff are quitting and no new workers are joining? There’s a disconnect between vision and reality.

To be honest, I believe many leaders in Japan need to put down their accounting manuals and business strategy books—and start reading the Bible. There, they would learn what it truly means to lead with wisdom, integrity, and humility. I earnestly pray that they would humble themselves before God Almighty and allow His Word to shape their understanding of leadership. The business world—and the people in it—deserve better.