How does a Christian conduct him/herself in the business world? What principles should be the basis of their actions? These questions stir in the minds of many Christians involved in the business world on a daily basis. Below are several suggestions taken from the book by Charles M. Shelton 100 years ago, “In His Steps.” Each idea springs from the thought, “What would Jesus do?”
- He would engage in the business first of all for the purpose of glorifying God, and not for the primary purpose of making money.
- All the money that might be made he would never regard as his own, but as trust funds to be used for the good of humanity.
- His relations with all the persons in his employ would be the most loving and helpful. He could not help thinking of each of them in the light of a soul to be saved. This thought would always be greater than his thought of making money in the business.
- He would never do a single dishonest or questionable thing, or try in any remotest way to get the advantage of anyone else in the same business.
- The principle of unselfishness and helpfulness in the business would direct all his decisions.
- Upon this principle he would shape the entire plan of his relationship to his employees, to the people who were his customers, and to the general business world with which he was connected.
Although these six ideas are not exhaustive in a Christian’s attitude in business, they do provide a good foundation. One would be wise to clip this out and tape it to a wall in his/her office; paperclip it to the inside of one’s briefcase, etc. It would serve as a good reminder of our purpose and participation in this world as we grow closer to Christ.
Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thinks through Him to God the Father. Colossians 3:17
….Mike