A Simpler Christianity
In some recent conversations with people who are not connected to the Christian faith, I heard one of them state, “Christianity seems hard”. I suppose to some it probably does. Anybody trying to figure out what living the Christian life looks like would probably get confused with so much diverse information available from many areas.
To the world, they might ask questions like:
Why are there so many churches?
Why are there so many different Christian beliefs within the same religion?
How do you know which is right and which is wrong?
These are legitimate questions, however, there are no easy answers. I know that I wrestle with some of these thoughts sometimes as well.
For me, I have resolved my own mind that there are some basic concepts that I have tried to hold onto at all costs as Christianity can be very complicated and complex sometimes. I prefer to think of my faith in much simpler terms as I strive to live a Godly life in a gentler way based on the teachings found in the bible.
For this reason, I am appreciative of the wisdom found in Micah 6:8, which encourages us on our daily journey to seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
(Micah 6:8 NIV)
These three “acts of Christian faith” serve as a compass for our professional lives, helping us navigate the complex terrain of the business world while staying true to our faith.
Seek Justice
The first part of Micah 6:8 challenges us to "seek justice." This means conducting our affairs with fairness, integrity, and a commitment to righting wrongs.
In Isaiah 1:17, we find encouragement to "seek justice, correct oppression, bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause."
Q: How can we ensure that our business practices are equitable and just? Are we actively seeking to correct any injustices within our organizations?
Love Mercy
The second part of the verse encourages us to "love mercy." God's word repeatedly emphasizes the importance of showing mercy and compassion.
In Matthew 5:7, Jesus declares, "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy."
Q: As Christian business leaders, do we extend grace to our employees, customers, and even competitors? How can we create a culture of forgiveness and mercy within our organizations?
Walk Humbly with God
The final part of the verse instructs us to "walk humbly with God."
In Proverbs 3:6, we are reminded, "In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths." This underscores the importance of aligning our business decisions with God's will.
Q: How often do we seek God's guidance in our professional lives? Are we humbly surrendering our plans and ambitions to His divine purpose?
In our pursuit of justice, mercy, and humility, we should also reflect on the words of Colossians 3:23-24: "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."
This reminds us that our work is a form of worship, and we should approach it with the same devotion we offer in our spiritual lives.
Here are a few more questions for reflection (use them to lead a discussion in your forum group):
How can my business make a positive impact on the community and society at large through justice and fairness?
In what ways can I cultivate a culture of mercy and compassion within my organization?
Am I truly seeking God's guidance and aligning my business decisions with His will, or am I driven solely by personal ambition?
My Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come before you seeking to live out the wisdom of Micah 6:8. Help me to act with justice in all my dealings, to love mercy in my interactions with others, and to walk humbly with you as we navigate the challenges of the business world. Grant me the wisdom and discernment to make decisions that honour your name and benefit those you have put around me. May my work be a reflection of your love and grace.
In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Steve Shrout
President, Corpath Forums
Email: president@corpath.ca
"Pursuing Excellence in Business, Life and Spirit"
Special Note:
If you enjoyed today’s message, then share it with someone. Also, use this content and questions as a discussion guide in your next Forum Group meeting.
Attached to this is a printable/ fillable PDF you can use to help with your meditation and reflection. I encourage you to print it, answer the questions, and then keep it in a Corpath binder or folder for future reference and thought. You will receive a new PDF each week with each new Monday Meditation, and, over time, your binder will become a book representing your Corpath journey of BUSINESS thoughts, personal LIFE development, and SPIRITUAL growth.
