Rick Grove discusses hisexplores book “Does God Care About Your Business?” and explore the intersection of faith and business.

Key Takeaways

– God is neutral about business success/failure, but cares deeply about how we conduct ourselves

– Focus on eternal treasures (relationships, character) over earthly treasures (profits, growth)

– Use business as a tool for ministry and blessing others, not as a source of identity or worth

– Listen for God’s wisdom in business decisions, even when it seems counterintuitive

Topics

Book Overview: “Does God Care About Your Business?”

– Explores the question of God’s role and interest in business success/failure

– Written from perspective of long-time business owner, not theologian

– Challenges notion that business success equals God’s blessing

– Emphasizes God cares more about conduct and relationships than profits

God’s Perspective on Business

– God is largely neutral about business success or failure

– More concerned with how we conduct ourselves in business

– Wants us to use “good and perfect gifts” (talents, resources) wisely

– Differentiates between earthly treasures (profits) and eternal treasures (relationships)

Redefining Business Success

– Success shouldn’t be measured solely by profits or growth

– True success is using business to bless others and honor God

– Example: Chick-fil-A closing on Sundays out of obedience, not for publicity

– Shift focus from “ranking” (profits) to what “defines” us (character, relationships)

Practical Application in Business

– Treat employees as valuable people, not just producers (e.g. thanking them for paychecks)

– Look for ways to use business as avenue for ministry and blessing others

– Listen for God’s wisdom in decisions, even when it seems counterintuitive

– Be willing to obey if God calls you to leave business behind

Cautions for Faith-Based Businesses

– Businesses explicitly claiming to be ministries are held to higher standard

– Danger in trying to be a “hybrid” – neither fully ministry nor fully business

– Ensure business success doesn’t become an idol replacing worship of God