Here’s a video version of this post.
The Law and the teachings of Jesus allowed for 3 classes: business owner (such as shepherds), hireling, and slave. In reality, there were other classes such as politicians, professional soldiers, and destitute poor people who were not slaves. Though not an exhaustive list, the Law, Proverbs, the apostles, and Jesus recognized that financial freedom offered greater opportunity for righteousness. Certainly we cannot serve God and mammon, and the love money is root of all sorts of evil. But as Solomon said, “Keep well informed of the condition of your flocks and pay attention to your herds, because riches don’t endure forever, and crowns don’t last from one generation to the next.” Proverbs 27:23,24 ISV.
An owner of a small business is glorifying God, if he is obedient to God’s Word. This blog is more of a reminder of principles most believers already know. These points are along the line of water is wet and the sun is shining. But we tend to forget.
First, God is more important than our businesses. This is more important than just reserving time to worship. It means spending time alone with Him, studying His Word, and sharing the Gospel. It also means a proper attitude in whatever we are doing. Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31 ISV It matters to God how we spend our time, how we respond to people, and how we think.
The expression “time is money” is not found in the Word of God because God values our time more than our money. So wasting money is wasting time, which is more valuable in the sight of God. Do not spend more money on equipment than is necessary. At the same time, do not waste money on poor quality equipment.
People are more important than things. Numerous businessmen say that you do not have a real business until you have at least one employee, someone you are responsible for.
Your family is more important than your business, so as quickly as possible, move your business away from your home. It might be just around the corner. But when you are home you are not working.
Do these goals seem like a faraway dream? If they truly glorify God, then they are goals we can pray to meet some day.
Image Credit: Tom Roberts Shearing the Rams wikidata:Q7492201 Photographer lQEDjT-_MXaMJQ at Google Cultural Institute Wikimedia Commons
FINDLEY FAMILY VIDEO 