Do you own a Christian business? A Christian business isn’t just one that offers products or services to Christians, such as a bookstore. It is a business owned by a Christian, regardless of what it sells or which services it provides. It is recognized by this label because the owner proclaims herself as a Christian.
If this label fits you and your business, your goal in running your business should go beyond earning money. You can use your company to serve God in a unique way. You can turn your business into a ministry while still serving its original purpose.
Practical Ways to Minister Through Business
One of the easiest ways to minister through your business is by contributing funds to worthwhile organizations. You can designate a portion of the profits to a group or charity that is aligned with your beliefs. Money is always needed because most ministries never have enough to reach everyone who needs them.
You can get more involved by holding fundraising events with your employees. Host a bake sale or 5K or sponsor events organized by other groups. It requires a bigger dedication of time and resources from the company and your staff, but it has a big impact on those who need help.
Create your own ministry. This application can take various forms. Perhaps you give a discount on your products or services to military personnel. Maybe you offer free services to the elderly. You may even create a special ministry compatible to your business where employees donate their time to help others.
Why Christian Businesses Should Be Involved in Ministry
If you use the label “Christian” in your business, you must follow a higher set of standards than other companies. People are watching your business, expecting to see something different. While you must make money to stay solvent, you must also represent Christ in what you do.
As stewards of the business, you must honor God in all that you do. His command to help those who are in need and are less fortunate than you isn’t one just for individuals. It is also a command for those businesses that claim His name. In fact, the Bible says that to whom much is given, much is required. If God has blessed you with a thriving business, He expects you to glorify Him through it. One of the most practical way of doing that is through ministering to others.
Ministry in business will look different for every company. However, anyone who is willing to wear the label of a Christian business must realize they have a higher calling than just to earn money. They are to serve God by serving others.
