Light in the marketplace

Steve Lyston, Contributor

Every believer's ethical duty and diligence in the marketplace is to perform as though serving Christ even as their counterparts/co-workers may not be Christian.

Many times, Christians are the most difficult people to work within an organisation; which ultimately sends the wrong signals or message, and it turns people off from employing them (Ephesians 6:5-9).

With the global problems being faced by every sector, including the financial, security and political arenas, if the children of light don't rise up now, there are going to be some dark days ahead globally. Matthew 5:16 says, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may seeyourgood works and glorify your Father in heaven."

The children of light should allow their light to shine within their organisation, bring solutions for the organisation without compromise. The main fact that they are part of the organisation means that God has placed them there for a purpose; and if that purpose is not being fulfilled, then that door of access is going to close. Such persons need to ask themselves the question, 'Why am I here?'.

Many secular organisations make decisions which bring great hardship, security risks and/or suffering, while those who know the truth - the children of light - keep silent because of fear. They should not fail to carry out their function in helping society. If fear gets the better of them, then we are going to see anarchy, more job losses, poverty or more human trafficking! More laws will be put in place to violate biblical principles and our beliefs - regardless of our faith.

The Christian Boss

The Christian boss should lead by example in whatever area they are placed to manage. They can't be like the secular leader. Their main source from which to draw strength and direction, in order to carry out their daily activities and to deal with the daily challenges, must be God!

Many times, it is said that Christian bosses are worst than the unsaved ones. Christian boss, you must show mercy and compassion. You must understand that you are accountable to God, in the same way that God would hold a pastor responsible for the flock (Ephesians 6:9).

Galatians 6:10 reminds us, "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of thehouseholdof faith."

We need to look out for each other as Christians, not to become a clique, but to unite so that others will see the right example of the light.

Christian bosses should not exploit the poor. You cannot be like the secular bosses who gain their wealth by dishonest means. The main reason why the world is going through this dark period is as a result of the fact that the children of light have compromised their principles for fame, money and power. Now we are reaping the benefits of that. Many have got access to make a difference but they have compromised.

The marketplace is crying out for light! Remember, children of light must use their money so that God gets the glory; feeding the poor, giving scholarships to children of those who truly need it. According to James 5:3, we ought not to lay up our treasures for ourselves while people suffer. You have been blessed to be a blessing.

Christian Politicians

Every Christian politician should study Matthew 5:13-16. They should understand that they are Kingdom citizens and the metaphor of salt and light indicates the citizens' influence for good, as they work in the secular society. Any believer who no longer holds on to the word of God, is of no use to God or man! Each Christian politician must recognise that they are to be reflectors of light which come from God. No light, if it is the proper one, can be hid! No one who walks in light should embrace darkness. All should learn from Daniel. With all the plots from political associates, he remained true to God without compromise. Daniel brought solutions and he never bowed to corruption.

When children of light see themselves as servants of Christ first, then the spirit of excellence will come upon us. To help your organisation, your first goal is to please God. Then God will please the people.

Every employee must deal with his/her organisation with honest, excellent service. Remember that your reward may not come from man in a performance appraisal or increase in salary; but, in due season, God will reward you.

Steve Lyston is a biblical economics consultant and author of several books, including 'End Time Finance' and 'The New Millionaire'.