What are some of the characteristics that should be demonstrated by those who claim to have a Christian business?

:: Excellence.
Daniel was a man who distinguished himself among others because an excellent spirit was in him (Dan. 6:3). There are many lessons that we can learn from his life. For example:
a) he developed the natural gifts that God had given him and was willing to be trained. As businesspeople, we need to update our knowledge continually and to seek counsel from other Christians;
b) he maintained a godly character so the enemy could find no fault with him and
c) he was devoted to God and acknowledged Him as the source of wisdom and of all that he had and so God blessed him supernaturally.

:: Justice and fairness.
The word of God encourages us to treat others fairly, with justice and sincerity. "You shall not oppress a hired servant who is poor and needy, whether one of your brethren or one of the aliens who is in your land within your gates. Each day you shall give him his wages, and not let the sun go down on it, for he is poor and has set his heart on it; lest he cry out against you to the LORD, and it be sin to you" (Deut. 24:14-15).

As businesspeople, we should pay and reward people what they deserve and according to what we have agreed. We should make sure that people are treated with dignity and respect and also that our policies and business conduct do not oppress others.

:: Godly Character.
The standards required of those who carry His name in the marketplace are no less than those required of those called to be leaders in the church. We are God's leaders in the marketplace. The qualities found in 1 Timothy 3: 1-13 reflect a character and attitude that honour our heavenly Father. The Bible encourages us to examine ourselves. We might have to work at developing some of these attitudes but we need to make a start, remembering that we have access to the throne room of grace.

As businesspeople, we should pay and reward people what they deserve and according to what we have agreed. We should make sure that people are treated with dignity and respect and also that our policies and business conduct do not oppress others.

:: Righteousness.
Righteousness here implies conformity to the moral and ethical norms revealed in God's word. Jesus said our righteousness should exceed that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, who expected to achieve salvation by zealously obeying the letter of the Old Testament laws (Matt. 5:20). Jesus went on to give a series of illustrations showing that, while the Law deals with external actions, it also reveals God's concerns with the attitudes and motives of those that generate these actions. God is concerned with inner righteousness: a character which is God-like in character. This inner righteousness will naturally lead to a righteous life.

:: Honesty.
Lying is commonplace in our society - sometimes for what may seem the best of reasons, often for personal gain and almost routinely for business convenience. The payoff for dishonesty might be enhanced reputation, the avoidance of conflict or embarrassment, or monetary gain.

The temptation to be dishonest or unethical can sneak quietly into our lives. However, complete honesty is the commandment of the Bible. "Behold, You desire truth in the inward paths" (Psa. 51 :6); "Therefore putting away lying, let each one of you speak truth with his neighbour for we are members of one another" (Eph. 4:25) and; "To him who knows the right thing to do, and does not do it, to him it is sin" (James 4: 17). The bible is quite clear. We must know what is right and do it in truth at all times.

:: Integrity.
This simply implies that we keep our word and a lack of integrity means that you cannot be trusted to keep your word. Nothing is more vital than integrity of the heart. When we choose to be people of integrity, The LORD will show us favour for the steps of a righteousness man are ordered of God. It is important that you develop impeccable and unwavering integrity when you give your word in a business transaction. Also, the degree of integrity we exhibit in our lives will be reflected in how we bless those who work for us in our businesses. Be aware that a man's name can impact those around him in the marketplace.

Why not kneel before the Lord today and ask that He makes your business the one that is worthy of carrying His name and would glorify Him. May the Lord grant us our request (Amen).

** Culled from The Christian Business Magazine

:: Ola Aroyehun, the editor of this magazine has a passion to see Christian businesses raised up and developed in a way that earns the respect and attention of the business world. She advocates that biblical principles can succeed and win in today's business environment as long as Christians are ready to stand up and do not compromise their faith.