Your Faith-Driven Business Guide

Building a Faith-Driven Business: Your Guide to Success as a Christian Entrepreneur

When I started my business 7 years ago, I knew I wanted to glorify God through my work.

The problem was, I didn’t know exactly how I was going to do that.

I kept working and told myself that my character would exemplify him.

And sure, it could have…

As I have continued to grow my business, in my faith and do more research…

I have come to realize there are a lot more ways to glorify his name.

Through the work that I and many of you have committed to.

With this guide, it breaks down how you can express your faith and love for the Lord through your business.

You will find actionable steps, business examples and even Bible verses to help you envision how you can integrate some of these practices to create a faith-driven business.

TL;DR

For those that don’t like to read as much…

• Identify Your God-Given Purpose: Think about how your work can glorify God, grow His kingdom, and serve others with the talents and gifts he has blessed you with.

• Faith-Based Goal Setting: Commit your work to the Lord and let His guidance shape your plans.

• Integrating Biblical Principles in Business Practices: Uphold integrity, stewardship, and compassion in every decision.

• Developing a Faith-Driven Marketing Strategy: Let your light shine in your marketing efforts, reflecting Christian values.

• Building a Supportive Community: Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who encourage and uplift you.

• Servant Leadership: Lead by serving others, following Christ’s example of humility and service.

• How to balance Faith, Family, and Business: Prioritize time for what matters most, seeking balance with God’s guidance.

• Overcoming Challenges with Faith: Trust in God's strength and wisdom to navigate the ups and downs of business.

• Reflection and Continuous Improvement: Regularly assess your progress, learn, adapt, and grow in both faith and business.

1. Identify Your God-Given Purpose

You're God's Masterpiece

Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."

This means your entrepreneurial journey isn't random; it's part of God's grand design.

For example, Derek Dahl, The founder of Three Nails, created premium Christian activewear with only $126.

While going through financial hardships, he prayed and sought his purpose.

Inspired by Matthew 6:33, Derek was driven by his faith to fill a market gap and created a high-quality Christian activewear company.

He started working part-time out of his basement and garage due to having a full-time corporate job.

During this time, Derek’s wife had been dealing with chronic illness as well and wasn’t able to work.

He faced financial hardship, relied on credit cards and food stamps, and even received a foreclosure notice.

Despite financial struggles, Derek took a risk by investing in a costly course to learn how to do their own Facebook ads, despite not having the money for it.

This catapulted his brand to the huge $3+ million dollar business it is today.

Derek’s unwavering faith and belief in God’s purpose for his life led to the creation and growth of Three Nails

(Three Nails) (Derek’s Youtube)

God’s Plans Are Full of Hope

Starting a business can be daunting, but God has incredible plans for you.

Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."

Embrace Your Unique Gifts

Romans 12:6-8 discusses the diversity of gifts we each have.

"Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them."

Your skills aren’t just random abilities; they’re gifts from God meant to shine and help others.

Serve, Don’t Just Seek

Focus on how your work can glorify God, grow His kingdom, and serve others, not just on what you can gain.

Your business should reflect God’s love and purpose.

Actionable Steps:

• Pray for Guidance: Spend time in prayer asking God to reveal His purpose for your business.

• Reflect on Your Talents: Make a list of your skills and passions. How can these be used to serve others?

• Align Goals with God’s Purpose: Review your business goals. Do they align with Biblical principles like integrity, stewardship, and compassion?

2. Faith-Based Goal Setting

Commit Your Goals to God

Proverbs 16:3 says, "Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established."

Dedicating your plans to God and seeking His guidance ensures that your goals align with His will.

Example: DaySpring Cards

DaySpring Cards, founded in 1971 by four Christian men—Don Leetch, Dale Ross, Roy Lessin, and Russ Flint—has grown into a major publisher of Christian greeting cards and gifts.

They saw their work as a ministry and were committed to spreading the Gospel through their products.

Their mission is woven into every aspect of their business, from product design to marketing

Whether through their greeting cards, gifts, or inspirational content, the company strives to honor God in all that they do.

This focus has helped DaySpring build a loyal customer base and positively impact countless lives.

Goals That Reflect Christian Values

Their goal was not just to create greeting cards, but to spread God’s love and message through their products.

The company's journey is a testament to how setting faith-based goals and committing one’s work to the Lord can lead to success and the fulfillment of God's plans

By focusing on this higher purpose, DaySpring aligns its goals with God’s will, ensuring their work glorifies Him.

Source: (Dayspring)

Actionable Steps:

• Create a List of Goals: Make a list of both short-term and long-term goals for your business.

• Align Goals with Biblical Principles: Review each goal for alignment with integrity, stewardship, and compassion.

• Regularly Review and Adjust in Prayer: Pray over your goals and seek God's guidance to adjust your plans as needed.

3. Integrating Biblical Principles in Business Practices

Running a business that honors God means integrating Biblical principles like integrity, stewardship, and compassion into every aspect of your work.

Work Heartily for the Lord

Colossians 3:23-24 reminds us, "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."

Example: Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby, founded by David Green in 1972, is a prime example of how a business can integrate Biblical principles into its operations.

David Green, a devout Christian, built Hobby Lobby on the foundation of his faith, ensuring that the company’s practices align with Christian values.​

Hobby Lobby started with a $600 loan in Green’s garage and a vision to create a company that honored God.

Now grown into a major retailer, Hobby Lobby has never strayed from its core values.

They pay its employees significantly higher than the federal minimum wage and ensures that its products are sourced ethically.

David Green’s approach to business is rooted in the belief that work is a form of worship.

Stores are closed on Sundays to allow employees a day of rest and worship, prioritizing spiritual well-being over profit.

Also, Hobby Lobby is known for its generous giving, supporting numerous Christian ministries and charities around the world.

In 2022, Green decided to give away his company to his family’s stewardship trust structured to ensure that the company operates according to Biblical principles.

Its profits will now be used to support Christian ministries and charitable causes as Green believes everything he has belongs to God and should be used to further God’s kingdom.

(USA TODAY) (Fortune)

Actionable Steps:

• Conduct a Business Practice Audit: Examine your current business practices for alignment with Biblical principles.

• Implement Ethical Decision-Making Processes: Create guidelines for decision-making that reflect integrity and honesty.

• Establish a Culture of Honesty and Integrity: Foster an environment where honesty and integrity are practiced daily.

4. Developing a Faith-Driven Marketing Strategy

Marketing your business is about reflecting Christian values in all your interactions.

Marketing with Integrity and Transparency

Matthew 5:16 says, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."

Marketing with integrity and transparency builds trust with your audience.

Example: TOMS Shoes

TOMS Shoes, founded by Blake Mycoskie, markets its products through a mission-driven approach.

Mycoskie was inspired to start TOMS after witnessing the hardships faced by children without shoes in Argentina.

The company's "One for One" campaign, which donates a pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair sold.

This campaign is a core part of TOMs’ marketing strategy and aligns with Christian principles of charity and stewardship.

TOMS also extends its reach and reinforces its commitment to faith-driven philanthropy by partnering with several Christian organizations, ensuring that their efforts are impactful and aligned with their mission to serve.

They maintain transparency about their operations and the impact of their donations, fostering trust and demonstrating integrity.

Putting Matthew 5:16 in action through their business.

(The Outlook)(TOMS)

Actionable Steps:

• Create a Marketing Plan that Reflects Christian Values: Develop a strategy that embodies honesty, integrity, and transparency.

• Use Testimonials and Stories of Faith: Share testimonials and stories that demonstrate how your faith impacts your business.

• Engage with Meaningful and Ethical Content: Produce content that aligns with your Christian values and builds relationships.

5. Building a Supportive Community

Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can make all the difference in your journey as a Christian entrepreneur.

The Importance of Community

Hebrews 10:24-25 emphasizes the importance of encouraging one another and meeting together.

A supportive community offers encouragement and helps you stay grounded in your faith.

Mutual Support Among Christian Entrepreneurs

For example, joining a network of Christian entrepreneurs can provide spiritual encouragement and a platform to share experiences and grow together.

This mutual support is invaluable for personal and professional growth.

Actionable Steps:

• Join or Form a Network of Christian Entrepreneurs: Seek out or start a network of like-minded individuals.

• Attend Faith-Based Business Events and Conferences: Participate in events that focus on faith and business.

• Create a Supportive Online Community: Use online platforms to connect with other Christian entrepreneurs regularly.

6. Servant Leadership in Action

Being a leader in business is about serving your team and customers with humility and love.

The Power of Servant Leadership

Mark 10:45 tells us, "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

Jesus set the ultimate example of servant leadership.

Example: Truett Cathy

Known for its chicken sandwiches and strong Christian values, Chick-fil-A was founded by Truett Cathy in 1946.

They started our as a small diner in Hapeville, Georgia and turned into the national chain that it is today.

From its early days, Truett Cathy emphasized the importance of treating customers with respect and kindness.

The company's "Second Mile Service" encourages employees to exceed customer expectations.

Chick-fil-A also provides scholarships through its “Remarkable Futures” initiative, helping employees pursue higher education and achieve their career goals.

This commitment to employee welfare reflects the company’s belief in serving its team members.

The “WinShape Foundation”, established by Chick-fil-A’s founder Truett Cathy in 1984 supports numerous programs, including camps, foster homes, and college scholarships, all aimed at making a positive impact on society.

As you can see, Truett Cathy and his successors have consistently modeled servant leadership, prioritizing the needs of customers, employees, and the community.

(Business Insider) (Winshape)

Actionable Steps:

• Identify Ways to Serve Others in Your Business: Look for opportunities to serve your team and customers meaningfully.

• Implement Regular Team-Building and Spiritual Growth Activities: Organize activities that promote team cohesion and spiritual growth.

• Foster a Culture of Service and Humility: Make service and humility central values in your business.

7. Balancing Faith, Family, and Business

Finding the right balance between your spiritual life, family, and business is essential for your overall well-being and success.

The Importance of Balance

Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, "For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven." Maintaining a healthy balance ensures that each aspect of your life receives the attention it needs.

Example: Mary Kay Ash

Mary Kay Ash, the founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics, is an exemplary figure when it comes to balancing faith, family, and business.

At the age of 17, she began selling books door-to-door to support her three children while her husband was away during World War II.

She then launched Mary Kay Cosmetics in 1963 with an initial investment of $5,000.

Her business was founded on the motto “God first, family second, career third.”

This approach ensured that employees could prioritize their faith and family while pursuing their careers

Mary Kay Ash’s legacy is not just in the billions of dollars her company has generated or the countless women it has empowered.

It is in the balanced life she led and the example she set for others.

Her story teaches us that with faith, determination, and the right priorities, it is possible to succeed in business without sacrificing what truly matters.
(Mary Kay InTouch)​​ (Loving on Me)​.

Actionable Steps:

• Set Boundaries and Prioritize Time for Family and Faith: Allocate dedicated time for family and faith activities.

• Use Tools and Strategies for Time Management: Utilize time management tools to stay organized.

• Seek God’s Guidance in Balancing Your Responsibilities: Regularly pray for wisdom and guidance in managing your time.

8. Overcoming Challenges with Faith

Entrepreneurial life is full of ups and downs, but trusting God can help you navigate these challenges with confidence and peace.

Trusting God in Difficult Times

Philippians 4:13 encourages us, "I can do all things through him who strengthens me." Trusting in God's strength and wisdom can provide the courage needed to succeed in business.

Example: Charity: Water

Founded by Scott Harrison in 2006.

It’s mission is to provide clean and safe drinking water to people in developing nations.

Once a successful nightclub promoter, he realized his life lacked purpose and meaning.

Scott Harrison faced numerous challenges, transitioning from a lucrative career to living on modest means while volunteering.

This experience exposed him to the dire need for clean water in many communities and inspired him to take action.

Scott faced the daunting task of raising awareness and funds for a cause that many people took for granted.

His faith played a critical role in overcoming these obstacles.

Harrison demonstrated that faith could fuel innovation and inspire others to contribute to a higher purpose.

His first major fundraising effort involved throwing a birthday party where he asked guests to donate $20 instead of giving gifts.

This event raised $15,000 and funded Charity: Water's first few water projects in Uganda

Despite initial struggles and the magnitude of the water crisis, Harrison’s reliance on faith provided the strength to persevere.

The organization has funded over 138,000 water projects in 29 countries, helping millions of people gain access to clean water

Harrison’s story is a testament to how trusting in God’s strength and wisdom can lead to overcoming significant challenges and achieving great success in business.(Charity Water Help Center)​.

Actionable Steps:

• Develop a Prayer Routine to Seek Strength and Wisdom: Establish a daily prayer routine to seek God’s guidance.

• Surround Yourself with a Supportive Faith Community: Engage with a community of believers for support.

• Read and Reflect on Scripture that Provides Encouragement: Make a habit of reading and reflecting on Bible verses that inspire you.

9. Reflection and Continuous Improvement

Your journey as a Christian entrepreneur is an ongoing process of growth and learning.

The Importance of Self-Assessment

2 Corinthians 13:5 reminds us, "Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves."

Regular self-assessment ensures alignment with Christ’s teachings.

Example: All the above.

As we’ve seen with many of the businesses and entrepeneurs we’ve learned about here…

It is important as a Christian Entrepreneur to be pure with your intentions when building your business.

Are you really building this for God’s glory or your personal desires?

Do you just want to be in business because of the lifestyle, status, and everything else it can bring into your life?

or

Are you in it to build God’s kingdom and share his love with those your business touches?

Examine yourself and dig deep as to why you are in business.

Actionable Steps:

• Regularly Reflect on Your Progress and Seek God’s Guidance: Set aside time for regular reflection on your goals.

• Be Open to Learning and Adapting: Embrace continuous learning and be willing to adapt your strategies.

• Celebrate Your Successes and Learn from Your Failures: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements and reflect on your failures as valuable learning opportunities.

Conclusion

As you navigate your entrepreneurial journey, remember that your faith can be your greatest asset. 

Each aspect of your business can be infused with the wisdom and guidance from God's Word.

By implementing these principles and actionable steps, you can create a business that not only thrives but also glorifies God and serves His kingdom. 

Embrace the journey, stay rooted in your faith, and let God's purpose guide every aspect of your work.

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