The True Bottom Line
As business owners we have an excellent position to influence those who serve and work with us. Several years ago while sitting at my desk working on budget information the Lord asked me why did I need more money? What an interesting question to come to your heart from the King of glory.
The first thing that came to mind was the fact that we wanted to be good stewards and secure all of our obligations while being able to advance the vision of the company. The next question from the Lord was a little more direct and cutting. He asked, "How do I fit in your company, and how is my Kingdom advancing because you are in business?"
Now these were very interesting questions since this was a distribution company for Christian books and music projects. We had meetings about the way our company was increasing the awareness of Christian authors and artists with people who rarely visit a Christian book store.
We also help to promote the ministries and writings of the authors and artists who have a limited budget and thereby help to get their message out. But this answer didn't seem to satisfy the questions the Lord posed to my heart. He was looking for something more so I dared to ask. "Lord what would please you about this company and how can it advance your Kingdom in the earth?"
Even though the answer was simple it made me rethink everything we were doing. "Make everything you do connect to Evangelism and my heart will be pleased! "
Wow!
The bottom line should have more to do with better ways to win souls than ways to make more money. Each department should have a soul winning strategy connected to the success of the department. This is not to say we must go through our company and attack those who don't know the Lord, we need a team from our church or market place ministry to help us formulate a plan for ways to reach those in house and those we serve outside of the company.
It could just be a gathering sponsored by the company that brings in speakers who know how to speak about business from a biblical perspective. It could be a Chaplin placed on the team or intercessors who pray for the lost in your company and clients of the company.
But I don't think we can call our businesses Kingdom until we have a clear evangelistic plan that is working in conjunction with the business plan. And even though most will be operating in secret that pleases the Lord's heart.
And His heart is to seek and save the lost! And that is the truel bottom line!
Bishop Larry Jackson