IN... But Not Of
Have you ever been part of something where you realized you just didn’t fit? Or maybe you just didn’t feel like you fully belonged?
There have been many times throughout my life where I have felt awkward about my presence in various situations. For instance, I’ve spent most of my life living in fairly large cities and towns. Amenities were always close. As a young child, I could walk down the street to buy bubblegum and baseball cards.
I understood the lifestyle of living in urban communities. It was very comfortable for me. Then, I fell in love with a Saskatchewan country girl! I remember going home to meet her family for the first time, at the farm. I was out of my element. I knew nothing about that lifestyle. And even though I may have been accepted I was not (and still am not) “from there”. I was ”in” the country but not “of” the country.
I share this somewhat amusing example with you as a way of illustrating our participation in the world around us.
In the bustling world of business, where profit margins, competition, and market trends often dictate the rules of engagement, Christian businesspeople find themselves faced with a unique challenge: to be in the world but not of the world.
This concept is rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Bible, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a distinct identity as Christ-followers while actively participating in secular activities, including business.
Before we go any further, take a moment and answer this question…
Q: What does it mean to you to be “in the world but not of the world” from a Christian businessperson’s point of view?
I would propose there’s a few things we have accepted as our role and responsibility to be part of God‘s family, but yet living in a world that would seem to be “foreign“ to us.
First, we embrace a higher calling.
One of the fundamental tenets of Christianity is the belief that Christians are called to a higher purpose. In John 17:14-16 (NIV), Jesus prays for his disciples, saying, “I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.” This verse captures the essence of being in the world but not of the world. Christian business leaders are called to align their actions and decisions with the teachings of Christ, even when it challenges conventional business practices.
Next, we strive to conduct our business, in ethical ways.
Ethical conduct is necessary for Christian entrepreneurs and professionals. The Bible provides clear guidance on honesty, integrity, and “fair dealings”.
Proverbs 16:11 (NIV) states, “Honest scales and balances belong to the Lord; all the weights in the bag are of his making.” This verse emphasizes that all our business dealings should be conducted with honesty and integrity because they ultimately belong to God.
We are challenged to prioritize people over profit.
Another vital aspect of being in the world but not of the world is the emphasis on prioritizing people over profit. In Matthew 22:39 (NIV), Jesus teaches, “Love your neighbour as yourself.” This commandment extends to all aspects of life, including our business. We are challenged to view our employees, customers, and stakeholders as individuals deserving of respect, care, and fairness.
Lastly, we are committed to serving God wholly.
In the pursuit of success, it is easy for us to become ensnared by the pursuit of wealth, power, and prestige. However, the Christian perspective emphasizes living a life of significance by serving God. Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV) reminds us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.”
Being in the world but not of the world requires us to navigate a delicate balance between adhering to our faith and participating in the secular realm. It means conducting business in ways the world simply cannot understand.
Here’s my final thought on this topic…
Being in the world but not of the world as a Godly businessperson provides a living example, clearly showing those around us the transformative power of faith in Christ and the potential for positive change.
Remember, we are just visitors here. Our home is somewhere else. But while we are here, let’s do all we can to direct others to Christ.
My Prayer:
Heavenly Father, in all areas of my life, including the business you have given me, I seek Your guidance and wisdom, as I strive to be in the world but not of the world, as your child.
Grant me the strength to uphold Christian values, even in the face of profit-driven temptations and worldly pressures.
Help me to conduct all affairs with honesty and integrity, as a reflection of Your truth and righteousness.
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.
