Christian Business Builder

In Hebrews 11:6 we are told that, “… without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Then, after this verse, the writer of Hebrews presents a long list of those who did diligently seek the Lord by faith. We know their names, Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Sara, etc.

The thing that is striking to me is that these folks had less to believe than we do (no Bible, no Commentaries, no Preachers/Churches). Yet, because they heard God speak to them, they believed and lived their lives in the full function of that belief system.

Fast forward to the beginning years of the 21st Century. We have greatly advanced in areas of communication, comfort, and knowledge since the days of those mentioned in Hebrews 11. We have had the word of God in print for several hundred years. We can listen to preaching from all over the world at the drop of a hat. Yet, when it comes to a faith that guides the full function of our lives (including our businesses) we seem to be sorely lacking.

Much of the American dream has been perverted by the powerful and unregenerate of our society. Now, let me make it clear, I am a believer in the American dream. I think all people should have the same opportunity to make their lives what they choose it to be. Success is defined in too many ways for anyone to not strive for something.

That being said, I do see that without a strong and abiding faith controlling our business acumen corruption moves in quickly and a “get all you can, can all you get, and sit on the lid” mentality takes over. God’s word tells us clearly that as believers we are to “seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”(Matthew 6:33)

God promises that we can succeed in life as it pleases him if we will live our lives in the fullness of our faith. Faith in God opens every door he wants opened and closes every door contrary to our benefit and his glory. Only when we actively pursue our business by faith will we be able to fully live and glorify God on the earth. (Which is our ultimate purpose anyway!)

So … as you head out to the office in the days to come, ask yourself this question: “Is my business the living out of my faith or is it just something to produce wealth?”

Talk more later ….

In Proverbs 22:4 the Bible states, “By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honour, and life.” This passage allows us to understand a basic truth about us, our lives, and our businesses.

The basic truth is that if we, as believers, want to enjoy these three most basic elements of life, we can only find them in a life of humlity and fear of the Lord.

Humility is an interesting concept and one not often associated with the hard charging world of Network Marketing. Yet, God clearly teaches here that, for the Christian, it is the way to riches, honour, and life. So, how do we engage in an industry like network marketing and at the same time live a life of humility before God and man?

1. We realize that our business is a calling from God and not just a money making venture.
2. We accept God’s leadership in our business and build it at his pace and according to his will.
3. We take on the role of Servant Leader. Realizing that this kind of leadership takes more time, energy and often times more resources than the traditional upline might be willing to invest.
4. We recognize that our business is relational and that as such our testimony for Christ is more important than our company “pin level.”
5. We desire to retain everyone we personally bring into our business model. If they depart, we want them to know we have done all we could to help them succeed. (No more, “some will, some won’t, so what, NEXT!)

The  fear of the Lord is the other key to riches, honour, and life. This fear refers to a reverence for the Lord. This reverence should be seen in all the aspects of your business model.

No “half-truths”, no bending the rules, no looking the other way. When we reverence the Lord all that we do is done to his honour and his glory. As we humble ourselves before the mighty hand of God, he will exhalt us in due time.

So … how are you growing your business? Is it growing with humility and the fear of the Lord or are we just building like everyone else? If you really want to distinguish yourself from the pack, build God’s way and he will bless!