“Wealth gained by dishonesty will be diminished, but he who gathers by labor will increase.” Proverbs 13:11
As we look at the above verse, we are reminded that we always need to be honest in all of our dealings. There is no room for any kind of deceptiveness in the way a Christian does business.
We are told that wealth that is earned by any dishonest means will be diminished – it will not last. But he who makes money by labor (honest labor) will increase.
How can you be dishonest in your business dealings? Are you ever tempted to make a sale, even though you know that the product is not really the answer for someone? Do you tend to stretch the truth about things or do you give people a clear picture of what your product/service can do for them?
Or…if you are in a business where you make money by recruiting others into the business, do you try to convince them to become part of the business even though it doesn’t seem like it is really a fit for them?
Always, always run your business in an honest, ethical way. Let this be your business standard – “But as for me, I will walk in my integrity.” Psalm 26:11
If you would like to learn more about what the Bible has to say about running a business that honors God, check out Christian Business Ethics.
I have seen many times others try to “convince” someone of a business that didn’t fit their profile. Specifically, this was in MLM – where persons are trying frantically to sponsor someone and get them buying products…In this same example I have seen friendships of many years disintergrate!
Mick,
Yes, I know this goes on quite a bit and it’s sad. I don’t know how someone can feel good about getting others into the business when it’s really not good for them.
We need to be honest in all of our business dealings – just the way Jesus would have run a business:-)