Why Do You Do What You Do?
The foundational question that God wants you to consider is this: why do you do it? Why are you busting your butt to build your business? You don’t have to be a Business Leader; you could just be a contented employee putting in your hours and going home to relax. You don’t have to shoulder all that stress, agonize over high-risk decisions, and clean up the mess of employees who don’t share your values or work ethic. Really, what is driving you as a Business Leader?
If you’re a Business Leader, it is vital that you regularly check your motives for Business Leadership. Colossians 3:17 states what the primary motive of a Business Leader must be: “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Business Leadership done in the name of the Lord Jesus brings honor to the One who has given you the skills, talents, and resources to lead the business. What follows are three desires a Business Leader should aspire to in order to run your company “in the Name”:
- A Business Leader is in a “favorable” position to influence others for Christ. Because of your position, people will listen to your witness, they will emulate your example, they will solicit your counsel, and they will often adopt your Christian values. In short, as a Business Leader you will have significant opportunities to influence others for Christ as you reflect Christ in your business. Is this what is driving you?
- A successful Business Leader will have an expanding capacity for “generosity” toward others. Your financial resources can change the lives of those around you and be used to advance the Kingdom of God. Is this what is driving you?
- A Business Leader will be able to maximize God-Given abilities to bring services and products to those who need them. You will be able to experience Christ as you follow His calling, utilize the talents He has given you, and fulfill His purposes for your life. Living out God’s purpose in your work is thrilling beyond compare. Is this what is driving you?
Are you aware of your deepest motives as a Business Leader? Is the primary aim of your company to build the Kingdom of God or to build a mini-kingdom where you’re on the throne? Paul challenged the Corinthians to examine their motives with eternity in mind: “So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.” (2 Corinthians 5:9-10) Purify the motives of your Business Leadership. As you do, yours will be a company that is done “in the name of the Lord Jesus” and will be a means by which God will bless others and maybe even you.
