Running a successful business is no easy feat. But running a successful business as a Christian can be even more challenging. Business can leave us vulnerable to the temptations of the world, especially that of wealth. It can test our beliefs and principles if we do not actively keep God at the center of our lives and business. That’s why it is so important to be intentional with integrating God into our business, from how we market, to making hiring decisions, to how we interact with clients, and everything in between. So, what are some ways you can ensure that God and your Christian faith remain at the forefront of your business? Make The Bible Your GuideThe Bible is our source of Truth. It is meant to be our guide for everything we do in life, including business. From the Bible, we learn how to live in honor and obedience to God, and in lovingkindness to our neighbors. For every decision we make, personal or business, we can find a corresponding principle in the Bible to help us make the right choices, according to God’s will. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.” Put God FirstIn everything that we do, we must consider God first. As Matthew 6:33 says, “Seek first the kingdom of God and all these things shall be added onto you”. When we depend on Him instead of relying on ourselves, everything falls into place. Jesus told His followers not to worry about provisions such as food or clothing because God would provide. If disciples of Christ would seek the Kingdom of God first, then their material needs would follow without the need to worry or to become anxious. This is the mindset we should adopt when it comes to the success of our business – seek God Kingdom first and allow Him to provide us with the right clients, team members, and overall wealth. Use Your Business to Serve Philippians 2:3-4 says, “Do nothing from selfish ambition but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others.” Let’s also look at Colossians 3:23-24 which says: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though working for the Lord… It is the Lord Jesus Christ you are truly serving” According to these two scriptures when we act in service to God and others, it is pleasing to Him. God knows that we need money to survive, but once we keep our eyes fixed on serving Him and our fellow brothers and sisters, we guard ourselves against the evil lust for money and worldly things. Use Your Business to ShareWe may also use our business as a platform or vehicle to share our love for God and His love for us. We can share our experiences, scriptures, and words of encouragement to inspire others. We do not have to be forceful, but simply sharing our values and beliefs can go a long way. It certainly honors God when we can publicly proclaim His name according to Matthew 10:32 where Jesus says, “He who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father in heaven”. Be Prayerful Philippians 4:6 says, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” Pray about everything. Pray for guidance; pray before you hire someone; pray before you come up with your marketing plan; pray when you feel down and overwhelmed. Cast everything unto the Lord in prayer, no matter how big or how small, and allow Him to lead you in your business. Rest Rest is something that is often overlooked by many business owners. Running a business can take over our lives if we let it – there’s always something to be done! However, resting from work is vital to not only the success of our business but vital for our relationship with God. God, Himself rested on the seventh day of creation (Genesis 2:2-3), demonstrating the importance of rest. Resting allows us to recharge physically, mentally, and spiritually, as we step away from work to reconnect with God and loved ones. ConclusionGlorifying God through your business will not hinder your growth or success as some may fear. If anything, honoring God in your business will bring you unimaginable peace, joy, and an abundance of blessings. Following God’s way over the world’s way is always the best!
