Dave Kier is an IBEC Board member and CEO of DFS Feed in Iowa. He writes a daily devotional for his more than 200 employees. I am privileged to be allowed to read them; one of which is reproduced here with his permission.
Feedback from a recent Business as Mission conference I attended revealed a desire from many to know more about how to be a Christian in business. Recently I read an article about our Secretary of Education where the author was almost appalled that she speaks of emphasizing biblical values in education. She and her friends even had the audacity to call themselves “believers”, yet there is an army of us believers in government, education, the medical community, serving in nursing homes and all throughout every field in the marketplace. Millions of us get up and go to work to serve Jesus and others and yet the young people are asking how they can live out their calling where they are. Yes, it’s concerning that they ask, but I am deeply humbled and excited that they are. Maybe this is the generation that will make the greatest impact for Jesus in this world.
How do I live out my calling here?
What would you tell a young person asking this question but to be strong in their faith, first and foremost. Go deep with Jesus taking serious the teaching of Paul where he said “…whatever you do, do all for the glory of God. (I Cor. 10:31)”. Be diligent in your work, but also remember to “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth (II Tim. 2:15)”.Remember every day to “…always give thanks for all things. (Eph. 5:20)”. Ignore the temptation to think it is every man for himself but rather “do unto others as you would have them do unto you. (Matt 7:12)”. Jesus said to “seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you (Matt 6:33)”. Never forget, no matter how lean the times, that the first fruits of your day belong to the Lord as does the first fruits of your income. Humbly declare Him by your actions and by your words. Be wise but do not be silent.
Being a Christian in the marketplaceWe met with two different companies this week. One we meet with every so often but we didn’t know the leaders in the other company very well. Still, we opened our time with prayer asking the Lord to guide us. No one has ever been offended but almost always someone will say “Thank you”.
Being a Christian in the marketplace is being who you are. Why hide who you are? If you are a child of the King, you don’t need to be brash about it but for sure you aren’t ashamed of it – are you? Don’t let the world and its threats intimidate you. Live for Jesus wherever you are. Speak up for Jesus wherever you are, not to make “brownie points” with Jesus but because you love Him and you love your fellow man or woman. It is a tremendous privilege, and responsibility, to serve Jesus in the marketplace.
Larry Sharp, Director of Training, IBEC Ventures
Larry.Sharp@ibecventures.com