Christian Principles Of Integrity & Business: Part 1

By Author: Jeremy Guy
Total Articles: 16
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For over two decades, as I have been in the business world (as a business owner as well as working in large non profit organizations, as well as international corporations), as well as serving in the non-profit sector, I have learned many lessons and observed many approaches and philosophies of the ways people conduct themselves in the marketplace and when in pursuit of business.

The lessons emerged through my relationships with other business leaders, government officials, customers while performing work for them, suppliers; and additional lessons have been learned as I served in churches, Christian schools and universities, and para-church ministries.

The following principles guide the development of my business actions and relationships. I've carefully searched the scriptures and confirmed the biblical accuracy of the principles. Wiser persons have already discovered similar principles and the list is surely longer than the one enclosed, but this list is born by the path I've traveled.

I have shared these ideas with my children, family members, friends, partners and potential partners, with the hope that ...
... they may benefit from my experiences. And now, through a series of several articles and postings, I am sharing them with you, the blogging and internet world.

I hope that you will find the content helpful, encouraging, substantial, and that it will encourage you in your own efforts to integrate and live out your Christian faith in the marketplace.

The postings will cover the following Key Areas:

* The PURPOSE of a Christian owned or ran company/organization
* Guideline for Determining Personal & Professional Pursuits
* Thoughts on PLANNING
* Strategies for FINANCIAL MATTERS & DECISIONS
* Advice on PARTNERSHIPS & STRATEGIC ALLIANCES
* How to establish and determine AGREEMENTS in business
* PEOPLE TO AVOID in business

Purpose

1. The purpose of a Christian-owned business and a Christian professional is to bring glory to the Lord through products, services, and the organization's operation.

"Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father Who is in heaven (Matthew 5:16)."

"Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God (I Corinthians 10:31; Colossians. 3:17)."

1. This testimony is to be demonstrated among owners, and in contact with staff, customers, suppliers, and all who hear about the business.

2. Such is reflected in the excellent quality of products and services.

3. A Christian professional is admonished to "…have a good reputation with those outside the church…(I Timothy 3:7)"

4. Conduct oneself in a manner worthy take the name of Christ and be called a "Christian."

I would love to hear your thoughts and comments.

Ray Hilbert is the CEO and Co-Founder of TRUTH @ WORK http://www.christianroundtablegroups.com, a not-for-profit ministry headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, founded in 1998, whose mission is to "change the way America works by bringing the Good News of Jesus Christ to the marketplace." Ray specializes in helping Christian business owners and leaders build strong organizations and integrate their faith into the marketplace, through leadership and business development programs that are built on biblical principles and practices.