How Christians Can Lead with Integrity in Business

How Christians Can Lead with Integrity in Business

In a time when ethical challenges in the marketplace are prominent, Christians are called to navigate their work with integrity, ensuring that their faith influences their decisions and actions. As someone who has worked in various environments, from small startups to Fortune 500 companies, I’ve seen firsthand the difference between companies that claim to be Christian and those that truly run their business with Christ at the center.

It’s easy to call yourself a Christian company, but knowing Christ and making Him the focus of your business is a whole different approach. The reality is that whether you run a business or work within one, the key to truly integrating faith into your professional life is to make Christ the foundation, not just a label.

Sorry, but this will be a long blog for some of you—I have a lot to say! But trust me, by the end, it will all come together and make a lot of sense. Let me take you on a journey that illustrates how leading with integrity in business starts with the right mindset—one that’s rooted in faith.

1. Start with the Right Foundation

My journey into the world of business and leadership started at a young age, working alongside my mother in a care home. We served the elderly, many of whom had Alzheimer’s, and I learned the importance of service and compassion early on. What I didn’t realize then was that these foundational years—starting from the bottom as a caregiver—were laying the groundwork for how I would approach leadership in every role I took on. From caregiver to caregiver lead, med tech, assistant director, and eventually the director of a facility, I experienced firsthand the pressures and stress that come with leading a team and managing over 114 residents, all with their own unique challenges.

But what kept me grounded in the midst of it all was my unwavering faith in Christ. As I moved up the ranks, I encountered more challenges—both in terms of leadership and ethics. Some organizations claimed to be “Christian,” but their business practices didn’t reflect the values of Christ. This stark contrast taught me the difference between simply identifying as a Christian company and truly living out Christian principles in business.

2. Leading with Integrity in the Marketplace

In the business world, integrity is not just a “nice-to-have”; it’s essential. Proverbs 11:3 says, "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity." Integrity serves as a guiding light, leading us in our decisions and actions. It isn’t just about doing what’s right when it’s easy—it’s about making the right choices even when the world around us encourages shortcuts and compromises. As Christians, we are called to stay true to our values, even in the marketplace.

I learned this lesson firsthand when I worked as a technician at a car dealership. Though I wasn’t in a formal leadership position, I quickly realized that leadership wasn’t about titles or authority. As a Christian, I understood that I was called to lead by example—regardless of my position. I worked closely with my master technician during my apprenticeship, and while I learned a lot from him, I also noticed something that stood out: he had a short temper, especially when things went wrong.

Whenever something broke or a problem arose, you could count on hearing a string of expletives as the whole world seemed to crumble in his eyes. Now, I didn’t say much about it at first, but I knew I had to lead by example, not by words alone. As someone who is grounded in Christ, I didn’t participate in the complaining or the harsh language. Over time, he started to notice. He saw that I was a Christian, and despite my quiet demeanor, there was something different about the way I handled myself. Slowly but surely, I saw a change in him. Instead of cursing and throwing tantrums, he started to say things like “Oh well, it happens” and just moved on with his work. He became more composed, and not only at work—he noticed changes at home as well. He shared with me how his family had started to communicate more peacefully, no longer yelling, but calmly discussing things instead. His words to me one day hit home: "Jonathan, I’m going to miss you being around to keep me accountable for my mouth, but I’ll be praying for you, and I’ll try to keep it together."

What was powerful about this experience wasn’t that I preached to him or told him about Jesus. Instead, I simply lived out my faith. People around you will notice when you act with integrity, even without having to say a word. As a Christian, Christ will work through you to impact others, sometimes in the most unexpected ways.

Christian author and leadership expert John C. Maxwell once said, “Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.” This quote reflects the essence of integrity in leadership. It’s about showing up for others, being an example, and guiding people not through authority, but through your actions. Integrity doesn’t demand attention; it simply shines through.

Bible Verse Breakdown:

Proverbs 11:3 – “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.”

• Integrity as a Guide: The first part of this verse emphasizes how integrity is a compass for life. It leads us down the right paths, guiding our choices in business, relationships, and leadership. For a Christian, it’s the moral foundation that comes from aligning our actions with God's will.
• The Destruction of the Unfaithful: The second part warns of the consequences of duplicity—living one way publicly while acting differently in private. In the marketplace, this could look like dishonest business practices or a lack of transparency. While those who lead with integrity experience guidance, the unfaithful face destruction because their lives are not grounded in truth.

Leading with integrity in the marketplace isn’t always easy, but it is always the right choice. When you make decisions based on faith and ethical values, you’ll not only stand out—you’ll inspire those around you to do the same.

3. The Power of Servant Leadership

In business, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle for success—climbing the ladder, chasing promotions, and seeking recognition. However, Christ redefines success. In Matthew 20:26, Jesus teaches, "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant." This radical approach flips the world’s definition of greatness on its head. Leading with integrity doesn’t mean striving for personal gain or seeking power, but instead serving others selflessly. When we prioritize the well-being of our employees, customers, and co-workers, we begin to cultivate a culture of trust, respect, and mutual growth.

I experienced this lesson in a real and impactful way during my time working as a delivery person at a high-end furniture and design studio. At the time, I was young, overconfident, and thought I had it all figured out. I had recently moved from Michigan to Arizona, and at first, things weren’t easy. I couldn’t find a job to save my life. But God answered my prayers in a way I never expected. Through a brother from the local church I had joined, I was introduced to a design studio, where I not only delivered furniture but also installed it. This wasn’t just any furniture—it was incredibly expensive, high-end stuff. A simple pillow you’d find at Target for $5 could cost upwards of $200 here. It was a world I had never seen before, but it was humbling.

At this job, I learned quickly that I had a lot to grow through. My co-worker, a recently married guy, was the stereotypical frat boy—wild, fun-loving, and all over the place. To be honest, I was pretty much the same. We goofed around a lot, not fully understanding the true meaning of service, especially as Christians. I’d work hard, but I often lacked the maturity to see the bigger picture.

But something started to change in me as I got more involved in my local church. I began focusing more on my relationship with Christ, and I gradually started pulling away from the distractions that once defined me. The more I grew spiritually, the less I found myself goofing off at work. I was becoming more focused and serious about my faith.

One day, after nearly a year of working at the studio, I reached a breaking point. I was about to quit. I felt like I wasn’t getting anywhere, and I was frustrated. When I told my co-worker this, I noticed something different. He seemed genuinely concerned, even though, by all accounts, he had been the one to drag me into the chaos of work in the first place. Over the course of that year, he had started to notice the change in me—how I was becoming more serious about my faith, less about the distractions, and more about my relationship with Christ.

What I didn’t know at the time was that his marriage was on the rocks. They had married young, both coming from a wild, party-centered lifestyle, and now that they were married, reality was setting in. The weight of responsibility was heavy on both of them. But seeing the change in me, my focus on Christ, and how it was changing me for the better, he started to consider how it might help his own life, especially his marriage. By just being myself, focused on Christ, I was serving him in ways I didn’t even realize.

I didn’t preach to him. I didn’t quote Bible verses at him. But by simply living out my faith, he saw a change in me that he wanted for himself. He saw how my relationship with God brought peace into my life, and he wanted to have that same peace in his own marriage. By the time I left the job, he told me, “Jonathan, I’m going to miss having you around. You don’t realize it, but you’ve been a huge anchor for me during this time. I see how your faith has helped you, and I want that for myself.” That was a moment of clarity for me. Sometimes, we don’t need to speak to serve others. We just need to live out our faith and let God work through our actions.

Bible Verse Breakdown:

Matthew 20:26 – “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”

• The True Meaning of Greatness: In the world’s eyes, greatness is often defined by power, wealth, and recognition. But Jesus flips this idea on its head. True greatness, according to Him, is found in serving others. It’s not about accumulating status; it’s about lifting others up, being humble, and putting their needs before our own.
• Servant Leadership: Jesus was the ultimate example of servant leadership. He didn’t come to be served, but to serve, and He calls us to do the same. Whether we’re in a formal leadership position or not, we are all leaders in some way. Leadership isn’t about holding a title; it’s about how we serve those around us. In every relationship—be it with co-workers, family, or friends—serving others with love and humility is the foundation of true leadership.

This experience taught me that servant leadership isn’t about what we can gain from others—it’s about what we can give. It’s about living in a way that reflects the love and humility Christ showed us. When you lead by serving, you not only change your own heart, but you also inspire those around you to seek a better way, just like my co-worker did.

Live Your Faith Out Loud

Matthew 5:16 encourages us, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." As a Christian, every business interaction should reflect Christ’s love. People are watching, and they should be able to see the difference Christ makes in your life through the way you lead and interact with others.

I learned this lesson in a very real way during my short time working as a car salesman. Now, I know that car salespeople often get a bad rap—but in the three to four months I spent at that dealership, God showed up in amazing ways. It was a season of challenge for my wife and me. I had just been laid off from a job I thought I would retire from, and I didn’t know what to do next. At 34 years old, married, and with a baby on the way, I needed to find a way to support my family. So, I turned back to sales—something I was naturally good at, but something I had long despised because of the dishonesty I’d seen in the industry.

You see, I had grown up hating the sales process. The standard practice seemed to be about hiding the truth, redirecting questions, and doing whatever it took to make the sale, no matter how unethical. But in this moment, after sending out countless resumes, the only job that responded was at a car dealership. I prayed about it, and God gave me a clear answer: “Do it.”

I hesitated, but ultimately accepted the job, knowing it was a short-term step while God had something bigger in mind for me. On my first day, the sales manager said something that stuck with me: "We’re different here. We want to make sure people have the best experience possible. We don’t care if we make a sale. If someone has a great experience with us, they’ll tell someone else to come here when they need a car." I was skeptical at first, but the more I heard that, the more I realized that this was a place where integrity could thrive.

After two weeks of training, I was out on the sales floor. In my first two weeks, I sold five cars, which was practically unheard of for a new guy. Over time, I started averaging 5-8 cars a week—numbers that stunned others who’d been at the dealership for years. One day, a more seasoned salesman came up to me and asked, "What are you doing to sell so many cars? I can barely get anyone to even look at our cars."

I told him, “Honestly, I don’t care if I sell a car. People can tell that. My main goal is to make sure they understand my faith. If they don’t like me, fine, but at least they know I operate with integrity. And from the start, I let them know I’m a Christian. I want them to understand that I’m not going to screw them over.”

This left him confused. He told me that he was Catholic but didn’t really practice his faith. Over time, through casual conversations about faith and life, I began to break down his walls. After three months, I received another job offer, something that God had lined up perfectly for me and my growing family. But when I told my coworker I was leaving, he was genuinely upset. We had shared many conversations about God and worship, and he told me, "What can I do to have the same attitude as you? I want what you have."

I told him, "You have to have a relationship with Jesus and not be afraid to show it. In a world that looks down on Christians, don’t be afraid to speak about your faith and live it out loud." He thanked me and said, "Jonathan, thank you for everything. You’ve helped change my mind about what it means to be a Christian."

This experience taught me something valuable: You don’t have to be preaching at work all the time to make an impact. Just being yourself and living out your faith, through your actions and integrity, can be the loudest testimony to those around you.

So, I challenge you today: In whatever marketplace you’re in, let your light shine. Don’t be afraid to let people know who you are and what you stand for. Whether it’s a customer, a coworker, or a client, your integrity can speak volumes. Live your faith out loud, and watch God use you in ways you never expected.

5. Wisdom Comes from God

Proverbs 9:10 tells us, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." In business, we face countless decisions, some small, others life-changing. Yet, at the heart of every good decision lies the foundation of wisdom—our reverence and fear of God. When we seek His wisdom, we are aligned with His will, and His guidance helps us navigate the challenges of the business world with confidence and clarity.

Let me share from my own experience, where the presence of the Holy Spirit and divine wisdom showed up in unexpected ways. There was a time when I was leading a worship team. As a musician, I had always been deeply passionate about worship, but I didn’t realize how much I was also being led by the Holy Spirit during those times. It wasn’t until I reflected on my leadership that I realized how, even in the most difficult decisions and moments of tension, I was relying on God’s wisdom to guide my actions and decisions. In those moments, I was making choices that not only reflected my faith but also honored God’s calling on my life.

This idea of wisdom as a gift from God becomes even clearer when we break down Proverbs 9:10:

1. The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom
   The phrase "fear of the Lord" refers to a reverence for God, a deep awe, and respect for His authority. It’s not about being afraid of God, but understanding His greatness, holiness, and sovereignty. When we approach business decisions with this understanding, we recognize that our choices should honor God and reflect His character. This reverence is the foundation of wisdom—it’s where it all starts.
   In my worship leadership, I remember how often I would be caught in a tough situation with the team or the congregation. During those times, it was the “fear of the Lord” that helped me step back and ask, “What would God have me do here?” Whether it was managing team dynamics or leading people in a way that was both spiritual and effective, I had to constantly remind myself that wisdom comes from honoring God first.
2. Knowledge of the Holy One is Understanding
   True understanding doesn’t come from experience alone; it comes from knowing God—knowing His character, His Word, and His ways. The more we grow in our relationship with God, the more we gain true understanding about the world around us. This understanding transcends human logic and reasoning. It’s the kind of wisdom that can’t be found in a business book or self-help seminar; it’s a divine insight that comes only through God.
   During my worship leadership, I unknowingly led with this kind of understanding, tapping into the wisdom God provides. When I was uncertain about how to move forward with a worship set or how to handle a situation with a team member, it was often in prayer or quiet reflection that God gave me the understanding I needed. It wasn't just about knowing the right chords or the perfect song choice—it was about leading with His heart, knowing how to speak to and serve the people He had entrusted to me.
3. The Fear of the Lord Leads to Wise, Ethical Decisions
   When we are grounded in the fear of the Lord and the knowledge of His holiness, we can be confident in making wise and ethical decisions, even when faced with pressure or difficult situations. God’s wisdom isn’t just about being good at what we do; it’s about doing it in a way that honors Him and serves others. This wisdom will help us navigate moral dilemmas and make decisions that align with God’s will for our lives.
   I’ve seen this play out in my business decisions and personal leadership. There were moments when I could’ve taken shortcuts or compromised my values, but because of the wisdom and discernment I sought from God, I made decisions that honored Him. It was through this process that I came to realize that even in secular business settings, the Holy Spirit was actively guiding me, leading me to make choices that were ethical, honorable, and ultimately aligned with God's will.

6. Accountability to God

Romans 14:12 tells us, "So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God." This verse serves as a powerful reminder that as Christians, we are not only accountable to the people around us—our employees, shareholders, or customers—but ultimately, we are accountable to God. Every decision we make in our businesses, whether big or small, matters to God. He sees the heart behind our actions, and one day, we will give an account for how we have led.

Throughout my life, both in the workplace and in my church experience, I have learned that being accountable to God is one of the most significant aspects of being a Christian in the world of business and leadership. From my time working in various roles to leading worship, God has continually used every experience to shape my understanding of what it truly means to be accountable to Him.

In every job, whether in sales, management, or ministry, I’ve encountered situations where I had to make decisions that reflected my faith. At times, the pressure to meet expectations or close a deal would conflict with my values. But I knew that the ultimate judgment wasn’t from a boss, a client, or a colleague—it was from God. This understanding kept me grounded and motivated to make choices that honored Him, even when no one else was looking.

Explaining Romans 14:12

Romans 14:12 reminds us that no matter what role we have, we will stand before God to give an account of how we lived. It doesn't matter if we are leaders, employees, business owners, or volunteers; we will be held accountable for how we steward the responsibilities entrusted to us. This accountability is not just about actions but about the intentions and motivations behind them. God cares about the "why" behind what we do.

The truth is, God sees everything. He knows our heart, our desires, and our struggles. In the business world, it's easy to focus on external results, such as profits or success, but God is concerned with the integrity, honesty, and faithfulness behind our actions. He sees whether we’re leading with humility, whether we’re cutting corners, or whether we’re placing Him at the center of our decisions. At the end of the day, it’s not about the results that the world sees—it’s about our faithfulness to God’s calling and His Word.

A Quote on Accountability

John C. Maxwell, in his book The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, says, "A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way." This quote highlights the depth of accountability. As leaders, we are responsible not just for the decisions we make, but for the example we set. Our actions, our leadership, and our conduct should be in alignment with the way God has called us to lead.

The Importance of Accountability to God

I’ve found that accountability to God isn’t just a personal matter—it's also about being surrounded by others who hold us accountable. Having a community of fellow believers, whether in the workplace or church, is crucial. They can help keep us grounded in our faith and remind us to stay true to our values, especially when the world around us pressures us to do otherwise.

There were moments in my career when I faced tough decisions. Having the support of fellow Christians, both in my workplace and church, was invaluable. It was during those times when I realized how much I needed God’s wisdom and the strength of a supportive community to help me make the right choices. These people didn’t just hold me accountable for my actions; they helped me to see things from God’s perspective and encouraged me to lead with integrity.

7. Lead with Compassion

Romans 12:15 tells us, "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." This powerful verse highlights the importance of empathy in Christian leadership. To lead with compassion means to genuinely understand the struggles, joys, and needs of those around you and to respond with care and support. It requires taking the time to listen, offer encouragement, and provide guidance when needed.

In my experience, one of the most significant lessons I learned was during my time as a director in a care facility. It became abundantly clear to me that leadership isn’t just about overseeing operations or managing a team—it’s about being present, genuinely caring for those you lead, and walking with them through both the highs and lows. Whether it was celebrating a milestone with a team member or supporting a client through a difficult transition, I discovered that true leadership involves taking an active role in the lives of others.

Leading with compassion means recognizing when someone is struggling and offering a listening ear. It’s about not just being a figurehead, but a supportive presence. Compassionate leadership builds trust. When people know you truly care about their well-being, they are more likely to follow your guidance and invest in the shared goals of the organization.

This type of leadership also involves sharing in the joys and successes of those around you. When your team celebrates a victory, whether big or small, being there to rejoice with them shows that you value their efforts and contributions. It creates a positive, supportive environment where everyone feels appreciated and motivated to continue striving for excellence.

As I reflect on these experiences, I am reminded that leadership, at its core, is about people. It’s about how we treat one another, how we lift each other up in times of need, and how we share in the triumphs and tribulations of life. When we lead with compassion, we are not just building successful teams or organizations—we are building strong, lasting relationships that honor God and reflect His love.

Conclusion

leadership in business isn't just about climbing the corporate ladder or hitting sales targets—it's about elevating others, living out our faith, and being the hands and feet of Christ in the workplace. We’re called to lead with integrity, humility, and love, not for our own glory but for God’s. As you navigate your career, remember that true success isn’t measured by your bank account or title—it’s in the impact you have on others, the legacy you create, and the lives you touch. So, step up, lead boldly, and let your work reflect Christ’s love in everything you do.

By leading with a servant’s heart and honoring God in all aspects of your business, you’ll inspire others to do the same and build a world that reflects His kingdom here on earth. The world needs leaders who are willing to change the game—let that leader be you. But here’s the challenge: it’s not going to be easy. Leading with Christ-like integrity in a world driven by competition and greed requires courage, resilience, and a commitment to staying true to your values no matter the cost. It’s about making choices that honor God when no one is watching, showing up when it’s hard, and standing firm in your faith even when it feels like the world is pulling you in a different direction.

So, as you step into your calling as a leader, I challenge you to not only excel in your field but to be a beacon of light in every interaction, every decision, and every challenge you face. Take every opportunity to serve those around you, lead with love, and reflect the heart of Christ. In doing so, you won’t just build a business—you’ll build a legacy that changes lives, points others to Christ, and leaves an eternal impact. Be the leader this world needs, and let’s set a standard that doesn’t just raise the bar in business but raises the bar in how we lead with Christ at the center.

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