Silencing the Imposter
As fellow Christian business leaders navigating the secular marketplace, our journey is undoubtedly filled with challenges and opportunities to shine the light of Christ. But do we do this consistently well?
Perhaps there are times when we may question our leadership acumen and its connection to our faith. There might even be times where there is uncertainty about our identity in Christ. We may at times feel like an imposter who isn't living up to our values and expectations. That's why it's crucial we continually anchor ourselves in the timeless truths of the Word.
It's also imperative that we lean into the wise council and encouragement from our Corpath brothers and sisters.
Let's explore three foundational elements and related scriptures that contribute to a healthy self-image as you live out your faith in the business realm.
Suggestion: Use these thoughts, and the related questions, to engage in some open conversation at your next forum meeting.
1.Identity in Christ
Scripture: Ephesians 2:10 - "For we are God's masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Q: How does understanding that you are God's masterpiece impact the way you view yourself in your leadership role?
Scripture: Galatians 1:10 - "Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ."
Q: How can you break free from the trap of comparison in the competitive business world and find contentment in your unique purpose?
2. Integrating Faith and Work
Scripture: Colossians 3:23 - "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters."
Q: In what ways can you approach your leadership role as a stewardship, using your skills and influence for the glory of God?
Scripture: Proverbs 11:3 - "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity."
Q: How can you ensure that your decisions in the business world align with biblical principles, maintaining your integrity even in challenging situations?
3. Finding Strength in Adversity:
Scripture: James 1:2-4 - "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
Q: How can you view challenges as opportunities for growth, trusting that God is using them to refine and strengthen you?
Scripture: Psalm 46:10 - "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
Q: In what areas of your life and leadership do you need to surrender control and trust in God's perfect plan?
Remember that your identity in Christ is the bedrock of your existence, empowering you to lead with purpose and integrity. As you integrate your faith into your work and find strength in adversity, may you be a beacon of light, reflecting God's love and grace to those around you.
My Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
I humbly come before you, grateful for the privilege of being called your child. In the midst of the challenges and triumphs of the secular marketplace, I seek your guidance and strength.
Grant me the wisdom to embrace my true identity in Christ, recognizing that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Help me resist the temptation of comparison and find contentment in the unique purpose you have for me as a leader.
As I navigate the complexities of integrating faith and work, may my actions be a reflection of your love. Grant me the discernment to make ethical decisions, to lead with integrity, and to foster a Christ-centred culture in the environments where I have influence.
In moments of adversity, Lord, teach me to persevere with joy, knowing that trials produce perseverance. Help me to seek your wisdom in all circumstances and to surrender control, trusting in your perfect plan.
May your light shine through me, Lord, as I live out my faith in the secular marketplace. Use me as an instrument of your peace and a vessel of your love, that others may see your goodness and glorify you.
In the name of Jesus, I pray.
Amen.
Steve Shrout
President, Corpath Forums
Cell: 403-390-3772
Email: president@corpath.ca
Web: www.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.
