Seems like a lot! Considering that in less than three years Jesus became the most influential person in all of history – and He only had 12 disciples with one dropping off for the wrong deal, (Judas)
Many will say that mixing Christian views into business is wrong; however, as a believer in Christ, I don’t see that as an issue at all. I give all credit to God for the blessing of my family, business, and clients. There are many fundamental principles taught in the Bible about money and business. Let’s talk about four of those principles that will help you attract, grow, and thrive in your business today.
1. Jesus was a great leader by being a great example to others.
Jesus walked the walk- literally. He was the same wherever He went and never compromised on ethics or morals. Jesus showed everyone how to do things by example, first, even when people failed once, twice or even three times (remember Peter?). He treated the poor as they were rich and filled them with encouragement and kindness, never looking down on them. 2 Corinthians 5:9 says that “so whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please Him.”
2. Jesus built His team based on commonality.
Each one of His disciples had something or someone in common. Moreover, as essential to having a tax advisor in your network or office, he brought one on his team, (Matthew). It’s crucial that you build a team of staff or recruit new advisors to your group that complement one another with common values and a shared vision. The apostle Paul teaches in Romans 12:5 that in Christ, though we are many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
3. Jesus was a relationship builder.
It’s so important to build relationships with your staff, your advisors, and your clients. Financial Services is a relationship business. You are managing some of the most important life goals, college funds, retirement assets, and financial dreams. While clients may have a different idea about money, you as the advisor have been entrusted to be stewards of the financial blessings given to your clients by the Lord Himself. It also makes transitioning to a new broker-dealer easier when your clients love, trust, and knows you well. 1 Peter 4:10 says that each of us should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.
4. Jesus wasn’t a control freak.
He empowered others, all of us, to continue His succession plan and continuity. He knew people would make mistakes along the way but left a legacy manual (the Bible) to go back to when things got tough. So many times, we as owners feel the burden of doing it all, but we need to remember that there is only One Savior, and it’s not us- it’s Jesus.
As owners or founders of a business, we feel that nobody will ever be able to take care of the company the way we did or the way we do. However, if you lead by example, bring on people with the same values and ethics, build healthy relationships, allow room for error and let it go to those you trained and led- all things will work out the way it’s supposed to. Matthew 6:33 says to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and these things will be added to you. Do the same in your business.