Faith at Work: A Plan for Business LeadersSample

Faith and Endurance in Business

Having faith in God, believing that He truly is God and not just a good teacher, can be a challenge. It requires you to think differently from the conventional wisdom of those around you. Every Christian hero and role model has one thing in common: “faith.” And faith only stands out because it was such a different stance from the norm.

Question: Did you step into business based on a word from God? Are you holding on to something that God has placed in your heart? Is that your anchor? If the answer is yes, then I encourage you—hold on!

There are very few arenas in life as consistently demanding of faith as business. Every day requires clarity and wise decisions. I think that’s why Proverbs is the most-read book in my Bible—I just want answers.

I’m so challenged by what James says in these few verses.

1. He makes it clear that you will face challenges...That's definitely written
   directly to business owners!
2. He encourages us to embrace that challenge. There is no other option. No one is going to solve problems for you. It’s up to you!
3. He acknowledges that we will be searching for answers to help us through. How
   can we lead and get others to take a step, when we do not have confidence in the next step we are trying to take ourselves? James knows we are going to be seeking wisdom - and he is clear that God will give us wisdom if we ask.
4. In verse 6 James tells us God is more than able to give you the wisdom and insight that you need in your business. But just a warning, it may be counter-cultural. It may not sound like the latest business book. It may not be what the business next door is doing. Verse 6 stands us directly alongside every historical hero of the faith listed in the Bible or elsewhere. When God speaks will we have faith to listen? When God leads will we hold on and follow?

As a business leader, I want to encourage you to hold tight to God. Leadership is sometimes standing firm, and sometimes it is being agile - reacting to opportunities or market pressures. In many ways I have thought it was a battle between faith and fear. However, it is actually a choice between listening to the Wisdom God offers or the wisdom of this world. If I can encourage you of anything it is this: In verse 5 James refers to “our generous God”.

God wants to bless you. So trust in Him.