Well done, good and faithful servant.
Each of us wants to hear the words “well done” or “good job.” We want to affirm our biblical values and Christian beliefs while also doing good work. We want to feel accomplished in our careers and finish our tasks knowing we’ve contributed or served meaningfully.
Matthew 25:21, ESV, states, “His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’”
In this parable, Jesus explains how we’re called to be faithful and demonstrate a strong work ethic, even in the smallest of tasks. We’re to shine bright as lights of God’s goodness and love in the world.
But being a faithful servant isn’t always easy. Amidst the busyness, stressful situations, team dynamics, and mounting pressure, it can be a challenge to stay strong.
Perhaps you have difficulty striking a good work-life balance, have an important presentation to give, or be managing financial dynamics requiring transparency and tact.
No matter our circumstances, we can incorporate our faith into our business practices. We can interact with others from a perspective of conviction, kindness, and understanding, but it’s only possible with God.
Ethics
Ethical behavior goes beyond just “doing the right thing.”
As Christians, we make a difference by living out our faith. The Bible defines our moral principles and belief system, but it includes so much more than that. Reading Scripture leads us to the source of all truth—God.
Treating others with respect, acting with integrity, and choosing to form intentional relationships are just the start. Redemption, reconciliation, grace, and forgiveness are more than values—it’s how to live out our faith. When the going gets tough, when our plans for our new small business aren’t taking off, and when our hope for a breakthrough looks more like a breakdown, we must lean even closer to Christ.
Proverbs 1:7, NIV says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” James 1:5, NLT also states, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.”
God is our great defender. He is the source of all knowledge and truth. He’s more than willing to impart wisdom to us—all we need to do is ask.
We can act as faithful servants because we have a flawless, faithful God.
While we can’t always choose our circumstances, we can choose how to respond. Even if we’re in a workplace where we can’t explicitly talk about our faith, we can still make a conscious decision to live out our beliefs and follow God.
If we take on even the smallest responsibilities with ethics and integrity, we’ll grow. Making intentional choices with our words and actions creates a lasting difference.
Faith-driven entrepreneur
Christian business leaders and entrepreneurs know that it’s important to keep our hands—and hearts—open to God’s plans. Being a faithful servant of God doesn’t mean that we’ll always have the right answers or make the right choices. However, it means we act with consistency, love graciously, and ask for forgiveness when we fail.
Taking the leap of faith to become an entrepreneur can be a scary time. Business management is tricky. If we’ve expanded to start a full organization or ministry, it’s hard to know how to lead employees well. Trust isn’t earned easily, and wisdom is an absolute necessity.
However, we can live with confidence as believers in Christ. Why? Because God is with us.
Consider the story of Joseph. Genesis 39:2-3, NLT says, “The Lord was with Joseph, so he succeeded in everything he did as he served in the home of his Egyptian master. Potiphar noticed this and realized that the Lord was with Joseph, giving him success in everything he did.”
Joseph was noticed not because he did great things on his own but because the Lord was the one who caused his success. Potiphar wasn’t a Christian. He didn’t follow God; however, there was something different about Joseph that caused him to recognize that God was in charge of Joseph’s life.
Despite his terrible circumstances, Joseph rose to a prominent position—second in command of Egypt. This should encourage our hearts. Despite our socioeconomic status, skill set, background, or even what others have done to us, God can weave it into a beautiful tapestry for His glory.
When we, like Joseph, recognize God is with us, there isn’t anything we can’t do. Our plans may not always work out like we expect them to, but when we put our trust in God, we know He has our best interests at heart.
He’s got this.
His will for our lives is good and will come to fruition. We can act as faithful servants because we have a flawless, faithful God.
Download your free Entrepreneurial Spirit eBook.
As a current or budding entrepreneur, you know you have a God-given dream.
This ebook has the tools for the path ahead as you continue to step out with your startup. Plus, hear encouragement and wisdom from entrepreneurs just like you! From work-life balance and business strategy to following God’s voice and leaning into those leadership skills, it’s all inside.
