Entrepreneurship is Booming!
Many have taken the leap of faith to start their own business, whether it’s full-time or a business on the side as they continue to work the “day job.”
There are many pros to being self-employed. We get to make our own schedules. We take off when we want, we control our own outcomes. We get to live out our passions and dreams. When it’s good, it’s good!
But, what do you do when there are times of uncertainty?
Whether you operate a storefront or have an online business, there are unpreventable circumstances that can dictate your cash flow. Natural disasters, an economic downfall in the stock market, technology breakdowns, or a disruption in our economy can cause our resources to become unavailable.
In many of these situations, there isn’t much we can physically do. However, spiritually, we can seek God for wisdom and strategies to stay afloat!
How Can You Incorporate God in Your Business During Times of Distress?
Make God the CEO of your business.
If God is the head of your life, why isn’t He the head of your company? If you think you’re doing it on your own, think again!
Our Father wants to be a part of every aspect of our lives, including our businesses. I made it a habit to pray and consult God before major decisions, as well as my day-to-day operations. Because He is the Author of our lives, we may as well include Him in our business. Rely on God and ask Him what you should do during unforeseen changes in business and He will direct you (Proverbs 3:6). Oftentimes, you are ahead of the natural order of things because He has already prepared you by giving you insight.
Remember Joseph? God gave Pharaoh dreams that no one could interpret but Joseph, and it was actually a dream of distressing times to come. God gave the understanding and wisdom to Joseph, and as a result, Egypt and the surrounding countries survived during a time of famine (read Genesis 41).
Stay ahead of your competition.
You may ask, “How do I stay ahead of the competition?” My answer, “Always position yourself for continual growth and learning.” Here are some examples:
- If you are in service – take more classes, read more books, see what others are doing in your field. Polish up those skills!
- If you are in sales – consider offering specials or seasonal discount programs. Research your competitors’ pricing and offer more comparable pricing and benefits.
- If you are in technology or development – think of innovative programs that are not available yet.
Also, commit to prayer. Ask God to give you witty ideas and creativity so you can stay ahead. This is essential to prospering during difficult times. When your business is advancing in excellence and innovation, your customers are more loyal to your brand.
Exodus 35:35- (NIV) He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers- all of them skilled workers and designers.
Believe what God says about you and your business.
Sometimes it’s hard to believe God when your bank account or business is suffering. But DO NOT govern your final outcome by your present situation. God is never caught off guard by the matters of the earth. He already considered these things when He called you Blessed! Agree with God that the promises of His Word are true, and faith in His Word will carry you through. Here are a few tips to reflect and meditate on:
- Denounce fear.
- Speak words of faith, careful not to speak the opposite God’s Word.
- Pray for guidance.
- Pray for peace.
- Strategize during the chaos.
Read Isaiah 45:3, Psalm 37:5-6, Romans 8:38-39
SO, WHAT’S THE PLAY CALL?
God never said that we wouldn’t have trouble in life or in business, but He did promise He would be with us and never leave us. Proverbs 3:16 (NIV) says, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”
Remember, it is God who gives us the ability to gain wealth, and if you place your trust in Him, you will prosper even in chaotic times.
Only Believe!
