Our North American society is becoming increasingly secular, and con­ditions in the “Corporate World” are no exception. In addition to the temptations with which all of us are familiar and subjected to day after day, the world of business offers many snares and pitfalls that could so easily trip up today’s Christian.

Most of these temptations have to do with greed. If morals are ignored, it becomes very easy to “earn big bucks” at the expense of one integrity. After all, if it leads to additional profits (or income), why not work a little on the Lord’s Day? Why not cut some corners with a project or job you are work­ing on? Why not pay one of your employees less than he or she deserves, or replace that person with one who will work for less? The list could go on and on. There is nothing new here, of course. The Bible already states in 1 Timothy 6:10 that “the love of money is the root of all evil”.

Let’s be clear – there is nothing wrong with a business making a profit, or a person earning a good wage. After all, we are to show good stewardship, and businesses exist to earn a profit for the entrepeneur who is making the investment and taking the financial risk on a day-to-day basis. (The current economic recession illustrates graphically what can happen to even the most established and respected companies.) Also, those who have been blessed with the ability to study and become professionals should be rewarded for their hard work and ambition to excel.

Part of the profits earned by business are often used for charitable purposes, such as hospital wards and equipment, scholarships, sponsorships, etc., all of which fosters a thriving community.

In the Reformed Christian community, Christian School, right-to Life organizations, and many other worthwhile causes are supported in part by profits generated by Christian businesses – large and small. Furthermore, the talents of Christian profes­sionals also fuel the success and viability of many worthwhile en­deavours.

So what does all this mean to the person who plans to enter the cor­porate world or wishes to start a business and employ others? What about the student preparing for an accounting, medical or any other degree?

As Christians, our lives are to be guided by God’s Word. It is our textbook, it is our guide book through the journey of our (business/professional) life. In it can be found all the principles which are to direct our lives. In 1 Thessalonians 5:17, we are commanded to “pray without ceasing”. We may come to our heavenly Father with all our petitions, large and small, and we may do this 24/7, for the Lord never slumbers or sleeps (Psalm 121:4).

How can we apply this in our daily walk?⤒🔗

God’s Word directs you←↰⤒🔗

The obvious conclusion to be drawn is that we should be very familiar with it. This Word needs to guide our every decision. When traveling, do not forget your Bible. It is the most important travel document you have. Read it at every opportunity. God’s Word is practical and will help you make the right choices. See for example 1 Thessalonians 5:22: “Abstain from all appearance of evil”. When confronted with a dilemma whether something is “al­lowed” or not, test it with this verse. You will quickly realize the answer.

Prayer can be offered up anywhere and at any time←↰⤒🔗

It is our lifeline and connection to Christ. We read in Philippians 4:6 that we are make our requests known to God by prayer and supplication. Take this to heart. The Lord is waiting for us to come to Him with even (in our eyes) the most mundane and trivial things. You can expect an answer to your prayers. However, don’t forget that “No” can also be the answer.

Be good Stewards←↰⤒🔗

We are called to exercise good stewardship. Whatever your position, be the best you can be. Exercise good time management – when studying, complete your assignments on time. If you are in sales, be on time for your appointments. If you are carpenter, do not make promises you can’t keep about job completion, etc., etc. Good stewardship also includes being honest, not wasteful, and proper conduct.

Stay connected to your loved ones←↰⤒🔗

The pressures of the job or business can be overwhelming. Make sure to take time to hug your spouse and play with your children. Take time to be with them. When traveling, call home every day. Do not ever leave the house without saying “Good-bye”. Uphold your family in your prayers. Also, stay involved with your church family. It is not enough to just attend the wor­ship services on Sunday. Attend society life in your local congregation. And, if you are a business leader, use your talents in God’s kingdom as well.

Let your life mirror Christ←↰⤒🔗

We should let our light shine and never lose an opportunity to witness about our Lord and Saviour. Be “a city that is set on a hill” and “let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your father, which is in heaven” (Matt. 6:14b&16). This includes our conduct if and when things are not going well. To our shame, this is often a test that many Christians fail.

We honour our Lord by using the talents He has blessed us with←↰⤒🔗

As Christians, we are to strive to excel in our vocation, and glorify the Lord’s Name. If you are an employer, strive to be the best “boss” ever, setting an example for your employees in your walk and talk as a disciple of Christ. If you are an employee, be the best “worker” ever, showing your employer and colleagues that being a Christian also means being conscientious, diligent, kind and honest. Taking God’s name in vain or laughing at vulgar jokes can quickly damage, or even destroy, our Christian testimony, regardless of our station in life.

Be thankful←↰⤒🔗

The Lord has so richly blessed you. Never forget to thank Him for His provision and leadership. “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” is the instruction given in 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

Trying to apply the few guidelines outlined here will quickly show us our need of Christ. As always, the Lord provided all we need to succeed. It is also clear that we cannot separate our professional and private lives. They are completely intertwined. We need to do everything as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23), as well as what we are told in Philippians 4:8-9;

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatso­ever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.