Faith and Finances: Biblical Insights for Women Entrepreneurs
As a Christian woman entrepreneur, integrating faith into your business practices is both empowering and essential. Biblical principles provide a solid foundation for guiding decisions, cultivating ethical practices, and fostering a heart aligned with God’s will.
I have been interested in business for some time now, from selling candy with my friend as a kid to the ice cream seller who came to the neighbourhood to the construction workers. I have tried several ventures which have been trial and error. The one in which I have thrived the most has been my Etsy store.
I follow the following principles for the business that I am writing about. Here’s how you can apply these timeless truths to your entrepreneurial journey.
1. Trust in God’s Provision
Faith in God’s provision is central to running a business. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to “trust in the Lord with all your heart” and lean not on our own understanding. As a woman in business, rely on God’s guidance rather than striving solely through your efforts. Pray over your decisions and trust that He will open the right doors in His timing.
2. Stewardship Over Finances
Stewardship is a recurring theme in the Bible. Proverbs 31:16 speaks of the virtuous woman who “considers a field and buys it; from her earnings, she plants a vineyard.” This shows the importance of wise financial management. As an entrepreneur, practice budgeting, saving, and investing wisely. Ensure that your business growth aligns with God’s principles of stewardship, avoiding reckless spending and debt accumulation.
3. Honesty and Integrity
A Christian businesswoman should always operate with honesty and integrity. Proverbs 11:1 says, “The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him.” Conduct your business transparently and ethically, knowing that your integrity honors God and builds trust with clients and employees alike.
4. Service and Generosity
The Bible calls us to serve others with a generous heart. Matthew 20:28 reminds us that Jesus came “not to be served, but to serve.” Apply this principle in your business by offering value to your customers, supporting your community, and giving back through charitable initiatives. When you build a business that serves others, you reflect Christ’s love and purpose.
5. Seeking Wisdom in Decision-Making
James 1:5 encourages us to ask God for wisdom: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God… and it will be given to him.” Running a business involves many decisions, from pricing strategies to hiring. Pray regularly for divine wisdom to navigate challenges and opportunities. This spiritual insight can bring clarity where worldly advice may fall short.
6. Balancing Ambition with Humility
While it’s important to pursue excellence, as Colossians 3:23 states, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,” balancing ambition with humility is key. Avoid the temptation of pride or self-reliance, recognizing that your success comes from God. Maintain a humble attitude, knowing that your business is ultimately a platform for His glory.
7. Rest in God’s Timing
Ecclesiastes 3:1 teaches that “there is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Entrepreneurship can be stressful, especially when growth is slow or obstacles arise. Remember to rest in God’s timing. Trust that He works in ways you cannot see, and His timing is perfect.
8. Learning from Christian Women Entrepreneurs
Many Christian women entrepreneurs serve as inspiring examples of how to integrate faith into business practices. Their journeys showcase the power of faith-driven entrepreneurship:
- Sandi Krakowski built multiple multi-million dollar companies by trusting in God’s guidance and blending her faith with her marketing expertise.
- Priscilla Shirer, founder of Going Beyond Ministries, integrates faith into her entrepreneurial journey by creating Christian resources for women, showing that business and ministry can go hand in hand.
- Lynette Lewis, a motivational speaker and author, empowers women to pursue their dreams while rooting her business success in Christian principles.
- Margot John, co-founder of FUBU with her son Daymond John, emphasizes the role faith played in the launch of their successful fashion brand.
- Lori Greiner, a product inventor and Shark Tank star, attributes her business wisdom and perseverance to her Christian beliefs.
- Shannon Wilburn, co-founder of Just Between Friends Franchise, showcases the impact of faith-centered leadership in growing a successful national franchise.
These women demonstrate that relying on biblical principles, seeking God’s wisdom, and maintaining integrity can achieve both spiritual fulfilment and business success.
Conclusion
Faith and finances are deeply intertwined for Christian women entrepreneurs. By trusting God, practising wise stewardship, operating with integrity, serving others, seeking wisdom, staying humble, and resting in His timing, you can build a business that not only thrives but also honours God’s principles. Integrate these biblical insights into your daily practices, and you’ll find both spiritual and financial success.