BEING and DONE
Did you know, as a Christian business leader, you stand in a unique position where your identity in Christ can profoundly influence how you see the world in both your personal and professional lives, and greatly impact those around you? Embracing this identity and allowing it to guide your actions requires a deep, courageous faith. Yet, often there is a disconnect between being a Christ-follower and consistently doing Christlike things. Pressures and norms constantly challenge your values.
Before we dive into this topic, take a moment and answer this question…
Q: Does my identity in Christ (being a Christ-follower) align with doing Christ-like things? In which areas do I succeed with this? In which areas do I often struggle?
In this life, there are many complexities and struggles. We often desire to live out our faith in ways that support our decision to follow Christ, but we often fail in this regard? So, what can you do to be more consistent in your "Being and Doing"?
Accept your IDENTITY
Firstly, it is essential to ground yourself in the truth of who you are in Christ. Your identity as a child of God is not contingent upon your success, status, or the approval of others, but solely on God's unchanging love and grace.
Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." This scripture assures you that your purpose and calling are divinely ordained, and the work you do in your business is part of God's plan.
Living out your identity in Christ starts with understanding that you are deeply loved and valued by God.
In John 1:12, it is written, "Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God." Your primary identity as a beloved child of God. This profound truth should shape your values, decisions, and interactions within your personal and professional spheres.
Act with FAITH and COURAGE
To act on your identity with courage and faith, you must cultivate a heart and mind that seek to reflect Christ in all circumstances. This means embodying the fruits of the Spirit in your leadership.
Galatians 5:22-23 describes these fruits as "love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." These attributes should permeate your interactions with family members, employees, clients, and competitors, guiding you to lead with integrity and compassion.
The challenge of aligning your actions with your identity in Christ often arises from external pressures and internal fears. Joshua 1:9 offers a powerful encouragement: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." This assurance of God’s presence enables you to act with courage, knowing that you are never alone in your endeavors.
Thinking about your professional responsibilities, ethical dilemmas and difficult decisions are inevitable. James 1:5 provides wisdom for such moments: "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." Regularly seeking God’s guidance through prayer and scripture can help you navigate these challenges with discernment and integrity.
All of us likely adhere to the idea that demonstrating Christlike leadership involves servant leadership, as exemplified by Jesus. In Mark 10:45, Jesus said, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." As a leader, your role is to serve those you lead, putting their needs above your own and fostering a culture of respect and care. This servant-hearted approach not only reflects Christ’s character but also inspires loyalty and trust among your team.
To sustain this alignment between BEING and DOING, regular spiritual practices are crucial.
Take a moment and read through this list and assess how you are doing in each of these areas:
Engage in daily prayer as you commit to honouring God with your day.
Spend time meditation, listening to what God's Spirit is saying to you.
Focus on scripture and let it teach you.
Fellowship with other believers who can provide support and accountability.
Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Community and consistent spiritual disciplines fortify your faith and keep you grounded in your identity.
Embracing your identity in Christ and acting on it with courage and faith requires continual reliance on God's word, a commitment to prayer, and a heart willing to serve. May you find strength and encouragement in these truths, and may your leadership be a beacon of Christ's love and integrity to those near you.
My Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the assurance of our identity in Christ. Empower us to live out this identity with courage and faith every day. Grant us wisdom, integrity, and a servant’s heart, so that our actions reflect Your love and truth. Strengthen us in moments of challenge and guide us to lead in a way that honors You.
In Jesus' name, we 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.
