Embracing Business Life!

Are you a business owner and a Christian? Do you find it hard to balance life between your professional life and your personal life?

Who is leading your business? You or the Holy Spirit? Don’t answer too quickly!

Based on 2019 census reports, there are over 6.1 million registered business in America (Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council). A quick search of the internet lists only 47 Faith-Based Christian companies. We know that number is extremely understated, because there is no specific methodology of reporting Christian-based independent companies. But the takeaway is that many businesses fail to stand out as faith-based companies.

But, for argument’s sake and this post, I am going to consider that since you are visiting this site, and reading this post, that you are both a Christian and a Business owner or operator.

There are several checkpoints that I want to entertain that will help us truly evaluate our business to see if it is truly a Christian-based business, or a simply a place that offers a service of goods.

You see, it’s very easy to call ourselves a Christian business owner; yet lack the Christian characteristics that differentiate us from any other business. As Christians, we want our business to reflect the values of our life.

Before we delve into this topic, take a moment and pray for Jesus Christ to open your heart and mind so that you can truly define your business and set it apart from others. After all, you want it to be a place that represents Christ and is a place where people can feel the presence of God.

Each week, I will address one attribute to consider for developing and operating a business that honors God. So, Let’s Go!

1. Who Owns Your Business?

I can already hear all the snarky remarks. “Well, Brad, I own it!” “The Bank owns it. I only get to work here to try to pay the mortgage.” “Uncle Sam owns it. He gets paid for doing nothing.”

And the answers could go on and on. But the reality is, this is the most important question a Christian must ask about his business.

No doubt you set up some type of corporation before opening your business. And, with that, you listed officers for the company. You probably listed yourself as the primary owner, President, CEO, CFO, or other highest level of ownership. I’m sure no one listed Jesus Christ as the owner!

I know that as Christians, we are people of prayer, and we pray for God’s guidance and direction for your business. But do we truly allow God to be the Boss?

How often do you sit down, with an open Bible, a pad and pen, and spend time in His presence for guidance in your business? (Oh, I know, we definitely do this when things are going bad). But, how about when there is extra money in the accounts, the employees are all playing nicely together, and you actually enjoy your job and even have some extra time for yourself and your family?

In order to a Christian-owned/operated business, Jesus Christ needs to have full ownership with you serving as a faithful steward of what He has given you.

Matthew 6:33 informs us to seek First the kingdom of God and His righteousness.

Proverbs 3 tells us to trust in Him with all our hearts and lean not unto our own understanding. The writer continues to tell us that if we acknowledge Him in all of our ways, He will direct our paths.

It’s hard relinquishing control. Especially for entrepreneurs, because it takes a lot of determination and tenacity to turn your dream of ownership into reality. But, in the end, it’s worth it if Jesus is in the center of your dream!

Visit Embracinglifeministries.org weekly for new updates