Starting and running a business is no easy feat. As a Christian entrepreneur, the challenges can seem insurmountable when you add the pressure of maintaining your faith and values.
I wanted to write about this since these challenges can be real long-term struggles. Personally, I’ve experienced some of these, if not all, in some degree.
Before I started writing, I started a business. Before I started a business, I became a mom. Before being a mom, I married a pastor and became a leader as well at our local church. Before all these, I became a Christian and even if that didn’t come first, it has been and is my highest commitment, since I’ve made it with God.
Being faithful to God is the goal. Following Christ in all areas of our lives, including our businesses, is the mission. Living by the Spirit makes it possible.
With God, we can navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship while staying true to our beliefs.
Challenges Faced by Christian Entrepreneurs
Balancing Faith and Business Practices
As a Christian entrepreneur, you have a unique set of values that guide your decision-making. However, in the pursuit of success and profit, there can be pressure to compromise your values. This can lead to a loss of authenticity and trust with your customers.
To overcome this challenge, it’s important to establish your values and stick to them, even when it’s challenging. Remember that your faith should guide your business decisions, not the other way around.
“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” – Mark 8:36
Finding a Supportive Community
Starting a business can be an isolating experience, and it’s important to have a network of like-minded individuals who understand your struggles and can offer guidance and support.
As a Christian entrepreneur, having a community that shares your values can be a great source of motivation and inspiration to keep going when things get tough. Look for Christian business groups, attend conferences and events, and join online communities to connect with other Christian entrepreneurs.
“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.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Coping with the Pressure to Succeed Quickly
Christian entrepreneurs may struggle with the pressure to succeed quickly. It’s often easy to become discouraged when you don’t see immediate results, or when it feels like everyone else is achieving success faster than you are.
It’s important to remember that success takes time and perseverance. Don’t be discouraged if your business isn’t an overnight success. Stay focused on your goals, work hard, and trust that God has a plan for your business.
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
Trusting in God’s Plan
It can be easy to become overwhelmed by the day-to-day challenges of running a business and forget that God is working behind the scenes.
Remember that ultimately, it is God who makes one succeed. Trust in His plan and have faith that He will guide you on your entrepreneurial journey.
“Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” – Proverbs 16:3
Depending on the Holy Spirit for Guidance
It can be tempting to rely solely on your own knowledge and experience to make business decisions. However, it’s important to remember that the Holy Spirit gives us guidance and counsel through God’s word when we need it.
Make time for prayer and reflection, and seek wisdom and guidance from the Holy Spirit as you make important business decisions. Remember that God is always with you, and He will guide you on your journey.
“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” – John 14:26
Interacting with People who Don’t Share your Values
In the business, you may encounter people (customers, potential customers, or employees) who don’t share your values or beliefs. This can be challenging, especially if you feel like your values are being compromised or disrespected.
It’s important to be clear about your values and to communicate them openly and respectfully. Don’t be afraid to set boundaries and to stand up for your beliefs. Remember that you can still treat others with respect and kindness, even if you disagree with them.
As for the people that you work with, lead by example and create a work environment that aligns with your values. Be clear about your expectations and communicate openly with your employees. Remember to treat your employees with respect and show them that you value their contributions to the business.
“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” – 1 Peter 3:15
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” – Luke 6:31
Prioritizing God, Family, and Ministry
It can also be a struggle to prioritize God, family, and ministry while running a business. As a Christian entrepreneur, these aspects of your life are of utmost importance. However, with the demands of running a business, it can be easy to neglect them.
We need to set boundaries and intentionally make non-negotiable time for these important aspects of your life. Remember that your relationship with God should always come first, followed by your family. Don’t neglect your spiritual and personal life in pursuit of business success.
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33
Being Faithful in Giving
It can also be a challenge to balance your business finances with your commitment to give back to your community and support God’s people in the ministry.
It’s important to establish a budget for your giving and to stick to it, even when finances are tight. Remember that giving back is an important aspect of your faith, and it can also have a positive impact on your business by helping to build trust and a positive reputation in the community.
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7
Conclusion
In conclusion, being a Christian entrepreneur comes with its unique set of challenges, but with faithfulness to God, commitment to your values, and a supportive community, being a good steward of your business is possible.
Remember to keep your faith in God at the center of your business, and trust that He will guide you on your entrepreneurial journey.
