#watchingandwaitingforjesus: Biblical principles for business practices- wisdom

Principle #1: Exercise complete dependence on God.

3:5–7 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes, fear the Lord, turn away from evil.
16:3 Commit your works unto the Lord and your plans will be established.
22:1 A good name is to be more desired than great riches.

Principle #2: Work hard and stick to it, don’t let laziness or sleep rob you of success.

Work hard.

13:11b The one who gathers by labor increases (wealth).
27:18 He who tends the fig tree will eat its fruit.
12:11 He who tills the land will have plenty of bread, but he who pursues vain things will have poverty in plenty.
28:19 He who tills the land will have plenty of food, but he who follows empty pursuits will have poverty in plenty.
18:19 He also who is slack in his work is brother to him to destroys.
21:25–26 The desire of the sluggard puts him to death, for his hands refuse to work. All day long he is craving while the righteous gives and does not hold back.

Stick to it.

12:24 The hand of the diligent will rule but the slack hand will be put to forced labor.
12:27 A slothful man does not roast his prey, but the precious possession of a man is diligence.
10:4 Poor is he who works with a negligent hand, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.

Don’t be lazy.

19:15 Laziness casts into a deep sleep and an idle man will suffer hunger.
22:13 The sluggard says, “There is a lion outside. I shall be slain in the streets.”
10:26 Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so is the lazy one to those who send him.
30:15 The leech has two daughters, “Give”, “Give”...

Get up!

20:13 Do not love sleep, lest you become poor. Open your eyes and you will be satisfied with food.
6:9–11 (also 24:33–34) How long will you lie down, oh sluggard? When will you rise from your sleep? “A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest”—and your poverty will come in like a vagabond and your need like an armed man.

Principle #3: Exercise honesty and uprightness in all business dealings.

Dishonesty offends God.

11:1 A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is His delight.
20:23 Differing weights are an abomination to the Lord, and a false scale is not good.
16:11 A just balance and scales belong to the Lord, all the weights of the bag are his concern.
20:10 Differing weights and differing measures, both of them are abominable to the Lord.

Dishonesty is bad business.

10:2a Ill-gotten gains do not profit.
13:11a Wealth obtained by fraud dwindles.
15:27a He who profits illicitly troubles his own house.
19:22b It is better to be a poor man than a liar...
20:17 Bread obtained by falsehood is sweet to a man, but afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel.
21:6 The getting of treasure by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor, the pursuit of death.
28:16b He who hates unjust gain will prolong his days.

Principle #4: Wise planning provides long term stability.

21:5 The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty.

Look to the Lord in your planning.

16:9 The mind of a man plans his way but the Lord directs his steps.
21:31 The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord.

Sow timely to reap bountifully.

6:6–8 Go to the ant, oh sluggard, observe her ways and be wise, which having no chief, officer or ruler, prepares her food in the summer and gathers her provision in harvest.
30:25 The ants are not strong folk, but they prepare their food in the summer.
20:4 The sluggard does not plow after the autumn, so he begs during the harvest and has nothing.

Organize your efforts.

24:27 Prepare your work outside and make it ready for yourself in the field. Afterwards, then build your house.
27:23–24a Know well the condition of your flocks and pay attention to your herds, for riches are not forever...
30:27 The locusts have no king, yet all of them go out in ranks.

Be a learner.

24:4 By knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

Principle #5: Be aware of both the advantages and disadvantages of wealth.

30:8–9 Give me neither poverty nor riches. Feed me with the food that is my portion lest I be full and deny Thee and say, “Who is the Lord?” or lest I be in want and steal and profane the name of my God.

Riches can give you favor and opportunity.

19:4 Wealth adds many friends, but a poor man is separated from his friends.
19:7 All the brothers of a poor man hate him. How much more do his friends go far from him? He pursues them with words, but they are gone.
14:20 The poor is hated even by his neighbor, but those who love the rich are many.
10:15 The rich man’s wealth is his fortress. The ruin of the poor is their poverty.

Riches can provide a false hope.

11:28 He who trusts in his riches will fall.
18:11 A rich man’s wealth is his strong city and like a high wall in his own imagination.

Riches can be temporary and fleeting.

23:4–5 Do not weary yourself to gain wealth, cease from your consideration of it. When you set your eyes on it, it’s gone. For wealth certainly makes itself wings, like an eagle, that flies toward the heavens.

Riches can breed egotism and arrogance.

18:23 The poor man utters supplications but the rich man answers roughly.

Principle #6: Generosity leads to financial success.

Give to the Lord.

3:9–10 Honor the Lord from your wealth, and from the first of all your produce, so your barns will be filled with plenty and your vats overflow with new wine.

Give to others.

11:25 The generous man will be prosperous and he who waters will himself be watered.
19:17 He who is gracious to a poor man lends to the Lord and He will repay him for his good deed.
11:24a There is one who scatters yet increases all the more.
19:16 Many will entreat the favor of a generous man and every man is a friend to him who gives gifts.

Principle #7: Avail yourself frequently of wise counsel.

15:22 Without consultation, plans are frustrated, but with many counselors they succeed.
20:18 Prepare plans by consultation and make war by wise guidance.
11:14 Where there is no guidance, the people fall, but in the abundance of counselors, there is victory.
24:6 By wise guidance you will wage war, and in the abundance of counselors, there is victory.

Principle #8: Act on each opportunity presented you. Don’t wait or procrastinate.

10:5 He who gathers in summer is a son who acts wisely, but he who sleeps in harvest is a son who acts shamefully.
14:23 In all labor there is profit, but mere talk leads only poverty.
26:15 The sluggard buries his hand in the dish. He is weary of bringing it to his mouth again.
19:24 The sluggard buries his hand in the dish and will not even bring it back to his mouth.

Miscellaneous thoughts:

Pay your bills and your taxes.

11:24 There is one who withholds what is justly due, but it results only in want.

Beware of credit.

22:7 The rich rules over the poor and the borrower become the lender’s slave.

Discern proper and improper advantage.

22:16 He who oppresses the poor to make much for himself, or who gives to the rich, will only come to poverty.

Pursue excellence.

22:29 Do you see a man who is skilled in his work? He will stand before kings.

1) Be diligent and not lazy

Throughout Proverbs, we see the importance of hard work emphasized. We are taught that we need to be diligent in our endeavors.

The word diligent is defined as “having or showing care and conscientiousness in one’s work or duties.”

Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.
Proverbs 10:4

She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Proverbs 31:27

These two verses from Proverbs teaches us that we need to care about the work we are doing. Through our diligent work, we are to love our coworkers, and customers by doing our work well. Not only that, but our hard work will also provide success to our businesses.

We must not be lazy either. In Proverbs 31, we learn about the wife of noble character. In verse 27, we read that she did “not eat the bread of idleness.” She was keen on the fact that laziness does not provide results. It is crucial to watch over the affairs of our work to see that they are profitable.

2) Practice humility

Humility is one of the leading characteristics taught in the Bible. As Christians, we are instructed to be humble in our daily lives, and this includes our work.

Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
Proverbs 16:18

When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.
Proverbs 11:2

Humility causes us to listen to others, to hear their concerns, and to address their problems. Whether those people are our clients or our coworkers.

Letting your pride overcome you will not get you anywhere and will eventually lead to disgrace and destruction of your business.

If you make a mistake, own up to it. Make it right so that others don’t suffer from your mistakes. Practicing humility means having wisdom. So let us become humble and take this Biblical business principle to heart.

3) Be a go-giver and not a go-getter

Society tells us to hustle and you will get everything you deserve. The Bible teaches us to be generous and give to those around you and you will be rewarded for your generosity.

A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
Proverbs 11:25

We honor God with our money when we give without expecting anything in return. Don’t always try to take. Stop asking, “What’s in it for me?” Rather, examine how you can go above and beyond to help those around you.

Offer great products or services, and charge a reasonable price for it. Be an asset to those you work alongside rather than a burden. Give more than you expect to get, and it will be given back to you ten-fold.

To learn more about being a go-giver, I highly suggest the book The Go-Giver!

4) Make money honestly

Throughout the Bible we see so many examples of how to handle our money biblically, and there are a large handful of Proverbs that tell us how to make money as an entrepreneur as well.

Do not cheat, lie to, or scam people out of their money. Build up your business little by little.

Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues with injustice. Proverbs 16:8

Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.
Proverbs 13:11

In fact, God would rather you have little success in business, but remain faithful to him the whole time, than to have you cut corners to make great revenue.

It may be difficult to watch other companies out there cheat the system and be rewarded with monetary success. But do not forget that the Lord will be the one to judge everyone accordingly. Our success comes from our faithfulness to God here on earth.

We need to trust that if we continue to remain faithful through our business practices he will provide for us.

I love the way that Jordan Raynor puts it in his book Called to Create: “Trusting is the difficult yet simple act of recognizing that we are not responsible for producing results through our work—God is.”

5. Be bold

Becoming an entrepreneur and starting a business is already a grand endeavor. God not only wants us to be bold in our faith but in all areas of our lives. This includes our businesses.

The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.
Proverbs 28:1

Our boldness shows that we trust God in our work. And, we continue to trust him even if we come across failures. As believers, we have the reassurance that when we take a leap of faith and fail, God will catch us and put us right back on our feet.

In business, boldness can mean creating a new product. It may mean providing the greatest customer service anyone has experienced. We can also be bold in the way that we talk about God to others. We can use our business as a mission field. It can mean overcoming fears and obstacles as we grow our businesses.

The central concern of the book is the call to live life in awe of God. This call opens the book (Prov. 1:7), pervades it (Prov. 9:10), and brings it to a close (Prov. 31:30). The proverbs tell us that good work habits honor God, grow out of character formed by our awe of God, and generally lead to prosperity. Indeed the fear of the Lord and wisdom are directly equated. “You will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Prov. 2:5–6).

The proverbs, in other words, are intended to form God’s (or godly) character in those who read them. This is the reason many of the proverbs ground themselves explicitly in God’s character, shown both by what God hates and by what he delights in:

There are six things that the Lord hates… (Prov. 6:16)
A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but an accurate weight is his delight. (Prov. 11:1)
The eyes of the Lord are in every place. (Prov. 15:3)

Godly character—that is, wisdom—is essential in all of life, including work. A glance over the proverbs demonstrates that the book has much to contribute to work. Many of the proverbs speak directly about the workplace activities of the ancient near east, including agriculture, animal husbandry, textile and clothing manufacture, trade, transportation, military affairs, governance, courts of law, home making, raising children, education, construction and others. Money—which is closely related to work—is also a prominent topic. Many other proverbs cover topics that apply significantly to work, such as prudence, honesty, justice, insight and good relationships.

The Valiant Woman (Proverbs 31:10-31)

Back to Table of Contents

A remarkable connection between the book of Proverbs and the world of work occurs at the end of the book. Lady Wisdom, who we meet at the beginning of the book (Prov. 1:20-33, 8:1-9:12), reappears in street clothes in the final 22 verses of the book (Prov.31:10-31) as a living, breathing woman, termed “the virtuous woman” (KJV). Some translators use “wife” instead of “woman,” probably because the woman’s husband and children are mentioned in the passage. (Both “wife” and “woman” are possible translations of the Hebrew ishshah.) Indeed, she finds fulfillment in her family and ensures that “her husband is known in the city gates, taking his seat among the elders of the land” (Prov. 31:23). But the text focuses on the woman’s work as an entrepreneur with a cottage industry and its servants/workers to manage (Prov. 31:15).[9] Proverbs 31:10-31 does not merely apply to the workplace; it takes place in a workplace.

The book of Proverbs is summarized, then, in a poem praising a woman who is the wise manager of diverse enterprises ranging from weaving to wine making to trade in the market. Translators variously use the words “virtuous” (KJV), “capable” (NRSV), “excellent” (NASB), or “of noble character” (NIV) to describe this woman’s character in Prov. 31:10. But these terms fail to capture the element of strength or might present in the underlying Hebrew word (chayil). When applied to a man, this same term is translated “strength,” as in Prov. 31:3. In a great majority of its 246 appearances in the Old Testament, it applies to fighting men (e.g., David’s “mighty warriors,” 1 Chronicles 7:2). Translators tend to downplay the element of strength when the word is applied to a woman, as with Ruth, whom English translations describe as “noble” (NIV, TNIV), “virtuous” (NRSV, KJV) or “excellent” (NASB). But the word is the same, whether applied to men or women. In describing the woman of Proverbs 31:10-31, its meaning is best understood as strong or valiant, as further indicated by Prov. 31:17, “She girds herself with strength, and makes her arms strong.” Al Wolters argues on account of such martial language that the most appropriate translation is “Valiant Woman.”[10] Accordingly, we will refer to the woman of Proverbs 31:10-31 as the “Valiant Woman,” which captures both the strength and the virtue carried by the Hebrew chayil.

The concluding passage in the book of Proverbs characterizes this woman of strength as a wise worker in five sets of practices in her workplace. The high importance of this section is signaled in two ways. First, it is in the form of an acrostic poem, meaning that its lines begin with the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet, in order, making it memorable. Second, it is placed as the climax and summary of the entire book. Accordingly, the five sets of practices we observe in the Valiant Woman will serve as a framework for exploring the entire book.

To some people in the ancient near east, and even to some now, portraying a woman as a model of wise entrepreneurship would be surprising. Despite the fact that God gave the gift of work to men and women equally (Genesis 1 and 2), women’s work has often been denigrated and treated with less dignity than men’s. Following the example of the book, we will refer to this wise worker as she, understanding that God's wisdom is available equally to men and women. She functions in the book as an affirmation of the dignity of every person’s work.

As always in the book of Proverbs, the way of wisdom flows out of the fear of the Lord. After all the Valiant Woman’s abilities and virtues are described and honored, the source of her wisdom is revealed. “A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised” (Prov. 31:30).

The Wise Worker is Trustworthy (Proverbs)

Back to Table of Contents

The first characteristic of the way of wisdom personified in the Valiant Woman is trustworthiness. “The heart of her husband trusts in her” (Prov. 31:11). Trustworthiness is the foundation of wisdom and virtue. God created people to work in concert with each other (Genesis 2:15), and without trust this is not possible. Trust requires adherence to ethical principles beginning with faithfulness in our relationships. What are the workplace implications of being trustworthy depicted in the book of Proverbs?

A Trustworthy Worker is Faithful to His or Her Fiduciary Responsibilities (Proverbs)

Back to Table of Contents

This does not mean we cannot work for our own benefit as well. The Valiant Woman’s duty to her household is reciprocated by its duty to her. It is proper for her to receive a share of the household’s profit for her own use. The passage instructs her children and her husband and the whole community to honor and praise her. “Her children rise up and call her happy; her husband too, and he praises her…. Give her a share in the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the city gates” (Prov. 31:28, 31).

Our fiduciary duty requires that we must not do our employers harm in the pursuit of meeting our own needs. We may dispute with them or struggle against their treatment of us, but we may not work them harm. For example, we may not steal from (Prov. 29:24), vandalize (Prov. 18:9) or slander (Prov. 10:18) our employers in order to air our grievances. Some applications of this are obvious. We may not charge a client for hours we didn’t actually work. We may not destroy our employers’ property or falsely accuse them. Reflection on this principle may lead us to deeper implications and questions. Is it legitimate to cause damage to the organization’s productivity or harmony by failing to assist our internal rivals? Is access to personal benefits—trips, prizes, free merchandise and the like—leading us to steer business to certain suppliers at the expense of our employer’s best interests? The mutual duty that employees and employers owe each other is a serious matter.

The same duty applies to organizations when they have a fiduciary duty to other organizations. It is legitimate for a company to negotiate with its customers to obtain a higher price. But it is not legitimate to profit by taking secret advantage of a customer, as several investment banks were found to have done when they instructed their representatives to recommend collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs) to customers as solid investments, while at the same time selling CMOs short in the expectation their value would fall.[11]

The fear of the Lord is the touchstone of fiduciary responsibility. “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil” (Prov. 3:7). All people are tempted to serve themselves at the expense of others. That is the consequence of the Fall. However, this proverb tells us that fear of the Lord—remembering his goodness to us, his providence over all things, and his justice when we harm others—helps us fulfill our duty to others.

For an application of this passage, see "Have a Banker When You Don't Need One" in Texas Nameplate Study Guide by clicking here, and see "Grow with Retained Earnings" in Country Supply Study Guide by clicking here.

A Trustworthy Worker is Honest (Proverbs)

Back to Table of Contents

Honesty is another essential aspect of trustworthiness. It is so important that one proverb equates truth with wisdom itself. “Buy truth, and do not sell it; buy wisdom, instruction, and understanding” (Prov. 23:23). Honesty consists both in telling the truth and in doing the truth.

Honest Words

Chapter 6 contains a well-known list of seven things God hates. Two of the seven are forms of dishonesty: “a lying tongue” and “a false witness who utters lies” (Prov. 6:16-19). Throughout the book of Proverbs the importance of telling the truth is a steady drumbeat.

I will speak noble things, and from my lips will come what is right; for my mouth will utter truth; wickedness is an abomination to my lips. (Prov. 8:6–7)
A truthful witness saves lives, but one who utters lies is a betrayer. (Prov. 14:25)
The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a snare of death. (Prov. 21:6)
A false witness will not go unpunished, and a liar will not escape. (Prov. 19:5)
Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause, and do not deceive with your lips. (Prov. 24:28)
Lying lips conceal hatred, and whoever utters slander is a fool. When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but the prudent are restrained in speech. (Prov. 10:18-19)
Whoever speaks the truth gives honest evidence, but a false witness speaks deceitfully. Rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment. Deceit is in the mind of those who plan evil, but those who counsel peace have joy. (Prov. 12:17-20)
Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight. (Prov. 12:22)
Like a war club, a sword, or a sharp arrow is one who bears false witness against a neighbor. (Prov. 25:18)
An enemy dissembles in speaking while harboring deceit within; when an enemy speaks graciously, do not believe it, for there are seven abominations concealed within. (Prov. 26:24-25)

Although the Bible does condone lying and deceit in exceptional circumstances (e.g., Rahab the prostitute in Joshua 2:1, the Hebrew midwives’ lies to Pharaoh in Exodus 1:15-20, David’s lie to the priest in 1 Samuel 21:1-3), Proverbs does not allow lying or deception to have a role in daily life and work. The point is not only that lying is wrong, but also that telling the truth is essential. We avoid lying, not so much because there is a rule against it, but because in our awe of God, we love the truth.

Lying is destructive and leads ultimately to punishment and death.[12]We are warned not only to avoid deceit, but we are to beware of the deceivers around us. We are not to allow ourselves to be taken in by their lies. Even here we recognize that we ourselves may be prone to believe the lies we hear. Like gossip (which is often a lie wrapped in a tissue of truth), we find a lie drawing us into the circle of those who are in the know and we like that. Or we find that in our own perverseness, we want to believe the lie. But the proverbs warn us forcefully away from those who lie. A workplace where only the truth is spoken (in love, see Ephesians 4:15) is utopian, yet God calls us to be among those who avoid the lying tongue.

About half of these proverbs prohibit false witness in particular, echoing the Ninth Commandment (Exodus 20:16). If misleading others in general is ungodly, then falsifying an account of someone else’s actions is a crime that “will not go unpunished” (Prov. 19:5). A false witness is a direct assault on an innocent person. Yet it may be the most common form of lying in the workplace, second only perhaps to false advertising. Whereas false advertising is at least directed against outsiders (customers) who know to be wary of sales pitches and generally have other sources of information, a false witness is usually an attack on a co-worker, and is likely to be accepted without skepticism within the organization. It occurs when we try to shift blame or credit by misreporting others’ roles and actions. It harms not only those whose actions we mis-report, but the entire organization, for an organization that cannot accurately understand the reasons for its present successes and failures will not be able to make the changes needed to improve and adapt. It is like shooting someone on a submarine. Not only does it maim the victim, it sinks the ship and drowns the whole crew.

For a fuller discussion of honesty in the Bible, see the article Truth & Deception at www.theologyofwork.org.

Honest Deeds

Not only words, but also deeds, can be either truthful or false. “The righteous hate falsehood, but the wicked act shamefully and disgracefully” (Prov. 13:5, emphasis added). The most prominent form of dishonest action in the proverbs is the use of false weights and measures. “Honest balances and scales are the Lord’s; all the weights in the bag are his work” (Prov. 16:11). Conversely, “a false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but an accurate weight is his delight” (Prov. 11:1). “Differing weights are an abomination to the Lord, and false scales are not good” (Prov. 20:23). False weights and measures refer to defrauding a customer about the product being sold. Mislabeling a product, short-cutting the promised quality, and misrepresenting the source or origin—in addition to blatantly falsifying the quantity—are examples of this kind of dishonesty. Such practices are an abomination to God.

There are practical reasons for acting honestly. In the short run, dishonest acts may produce a larger income, but in the long run, clients or customers will catch on and take their business elsewhere. Yet ultimately, it is the fear of God that corrals us, even when we think we could get away with dishonesty on human terms. “Diverse weights and diverse measures are both alike an abomination to the Lord” (Prov. 20:10).

Apart from false weights and measures, there are other ways of being dishonest in the workplace. One example from the Old Testament concerns land ownership, which was certified with boundary markers. A dishonest person could stealthily shift those boundary markers to enlarge his own holdings at the expense of his neighbor. The proverbs condemn dishonest acts like that. “Do not remove an ancient landmark or encroach on the fields of orphans, for their redeemer is strong; he will plead their cause against you” (Prov. 23:10-11). The proverbs do not enumerate every kind of dishonest act that could be done in ancient Israel, much less in our world today. But they establish the principle that dishonest acts are as abhorrent to the Lord as dishonest words.

What does honesty—both in word and deed—look like in today’s workplace? If we remember that honesty is an aspect of trustworthiness, the criterion of honesty becomes, “Can people trust what I say and do?” not “Is it technically true?” There are ways to break trust without committing outright fraud. Contracts can be altered or obfuscated to give unfair advantage to the party with the most sophisticated lawyers. Products can be described in misleading terms, as when “increases energy” in a food label means nothing except “contains calories.” In the end, according to the proverbs, God will plead the cause of those so deceived and will not tolerate these practices (Prov. 23:11). In the meantime, wise—that is, godly—workers will avoid such practices.

The proverbs return again and again to the theme of honesty. “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them” (Prov. 11:3). “Bread gained by deceit is sweet, but afterwards the mouth will be full of gravel” (Prov. 20:17). An amusing proverb fingers another form of deception: “‘Bad, Bad,’ says the buyer, then goes away and boasts” (Prov. 20:14). Deliberately denigrating a product we want in order to get the price reduced, then gloating over our “bargain,” is also a form of dishonesty. In the realm of haggling between knowledgeable buyers and sellers this practice may be more of an entertainment than an abuse. But in its modern guise of spin doctoring—as when a political candidate tries to convince English-speaking voters that he or she is tough on immigration, while also trying to convince Hispanic voters of the opposite—it betrays the fraudulence behind intentionally misrepresenting reality.

For an application of these passages, see "Price to Turn" at Country Supply Study Guide by clicking here.

The Wise Worker is Diligent (Proverbs)

Back to Table of Contents

The Valiant Woman is diligent. Proverbs portrays her diligence in three ways: 1) Hard work; 2) Long-term planning; 3) Profitability. As result of her diligence in these ways, she is confident about the future.

A Diligent Worker is Hard-Working (Proverbs)

Back to Table of Contents

The Valiant Woman “works with willing hands” (Prov. 31:13), meaning that she chooses, of her own volition, to work tirelessly in pursuit of the household’s goals. “She rises while it is still night” (Prov. 31:15). “She makes linen garments and sells them” (Prov. 31:24). “With the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard” (Prov. 31:16). It adds up to a lot of work.

In an agrarian economy, the connection between hard work and well-being is easy to see. As long as they have access to land to cultivate, hard-working farmers do much better than lazy ones. The proverbs are clear that a lazy worker will lose out in the end.

A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich. A child who gathers in summer is prudent, but a child who sleeps in harvest brings shame. (Prov. 10:4-5)
I passed by the field of one who was lazy, by the vineyard of a stupid person; and see, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down. Then I saw and considered it; I looked and received instruction. A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want, like an armed warrior. (Prov. 24:30-34)

In the ancient near east, hard work brought prosperity, but even one week of laxity during the harvest could spell a hungry winter.

Modern economies (at least in the developed world) may mask this effect in the short term. In good times, when virtually everyone can find work, the lazy worker may have a job and appear to do nearly as well as the diligent worker. Likewise, in economic downturns (and at all times in many emerging economies), a hard-working person may have no more success than a lazy one in finding a job. And at all times, rewards for hard work may be blunted by discrimination, seniority rules, union contracts, bosses’ favoritism, nepotism, golden parachutes, flawed performance metrics, ignorance by managers and many other factors.

Does this make the proverbs about hard-working diligence obsolete? No, it does not, for two reasons. First, even in modern economies, diligence is usually rewarded over the course of a working life. When jobs are scarce, it is the diligent workers who are most likely to keep their jobs or find new ones faster. Second, the chief motivation for diligence is not personal prosperity, but the fear of the Lord, as we have seen with the other virtues in the proverbs. We are diligent because the Lord calls us to our tasks, and our awe of him motivates us to diligence in our work.

Laziness or the lack of diligence in the workplace is destructive. All who have experienced lazy coworkers can appreciate this pungent proverb: “Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so are the lazy to their employers” (Prov. 10:26). We hate to be stuck on the same team with people who don’t shoulder their share of the burden.

For an application of these passages, see "Do the Tedious Work to Target" at Country Supply Study Guide by clicking here.

A Diligent Worker Plans for the Long Term (Proverbs)

Back to Table of Contents

The Valiant Woman plans ahead. “She brings her food from far away” (Prov. 31:14), meaning that she doesn't depend on last-minute convenience purchases of questionable quality and cost. She “considers a field” (Prov. 31:16) before buying it, investigating its long-term potential. She is planning to plant this particular field as a vineyard (Prov. 31:16), and vineyards don’t yield their first crop until two to three years after planting.[13]The point is that she makes decisions based on their long-term consequences. Proverbs 21:5 tells us that “the plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to want.”

Wise planning requires making decisions for the long-term, as seen for example in the cycle of agricultural asset management.

Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds; for riches do not last forever, nor a crown for all generations. When the grass is gone, and new growth appears, and the herbage of the mountains is gathered, the lambs will provide your clothing, and the goats the price of a field; there will be enough goats’ milk for your food, for the food of your household and nourishment for your servant-girls. (Prov. 27:23-27)

Like the Valiant Woman planting a vineyard, the wise herdsman thinks years ahead. So too, the wise king or governor takes a long-term view. “With an intelligent ruler there is lasting order” (Prov. 28:2). The proverbs also turn to the ant as an example of long-term diligence.

Go to the ant, you lazybones; consider its ways, and be wise. Without having any chief or officer or ruler, it prepares its food in summer, and gathers its sustenance in harvest. How long will you lie there, O lazybones? When will you rise from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want, like an armed warrior. (Prov. 6:6-11)

Planning ahead takes many forms in workplaces. Financial planning is mentioned in Proverbs 24:27: “Prepare your work outside; get everything ready for you in the field; and after that build your house.” In other words, don't start building your house until your fields are producing the necessary funds to finish your construction project. Jesus picked up on this in Luke 14:28-30: “Which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him, saying, ‘This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.’”

There are many other forms of planning, and we can’t expect the proverbs to serve as a planning manual for a modern enterprise. But we can note again the link in proverbs between wisdom, in the form of planning, and God’s character.

The plans of the mind belong to mortals, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. (Prov. 16:1)
The human mind may devise many plans, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will be established. (Prov. 19:21)

God plans for the very long term, and we are wise to plan ahead also. But we must remain humble about our plans. Unlike God, we do not have the power to make all our plans come to pass. “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring” (Prov. 27:1). We plan with wisdom, speak with humility, and live in expectation that God’s plans are our ultimate desire.

Attention to long-term consequences may be the most important skill we can cultivate for success. For example, psychological research has shown that the ability to delay gratification—that is, the ability to make decisions based on longer-term results—is a far better predictor of success in school than IQ is.[14]Regrettably, Christians sometimes seem to take passages such as “Do not worry about tomorrow” (Matthew 6:34) to mean, “Do not plan ahead for tomorrow.” The Proverbs—alongside Jesus’ own words—show that this is both incorrect and self-indulgent. In fact, the entire Christian life, with its expectation of Christ’s return to perfect the kingdom of God, is a life of planning for the long-term.

A Diligent Worker Contributes to the Profitability of the Enterprise (Proverbs)

Back to Table of Contents

The Valiant Woman makes sure that the work of her hands is marketable. She knows what the merchants are buying (Prov. 31:24), chooses her materials with care (Prov. 31:13), and works tirelessly to assure a quality product (Prov. 31:18b). Her reward is that “her merchandise is profitable” (Prov. 31:18a), providing the resources needed by the household and the community. The proverbs are clear that an individual worker's diligence contributes to the profitability of the entire undertaking. “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to want” (Prov. 21:5). The converse example is shown in the proverb, “One who is slack in work is close kin to a vandal” (Prov. 18:9). A lazy worker is no better than someone who deliberately sets out to destroy the enterprise. All of these anticipate Jesus’ parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30).

When we keep in mind that these proverbs about profit are grounded in God’s character, we see God wants us to work profitably. It is not enough to complete our assigned tasks. We must care about whether our work actually adds value to the materials, capital and labor consumed. In open economies, competition dictates that making a profit can be very challenging. The un-diligent—lazy, complacent, or dissolute—can quickly decline into loss, bankruptcy and ruin. The diligent—hard working, creative, focused—perform a godly service when they make it possible for their businesses to operate profitably.

Christians have not always recognized the importance of profit in the biblical perspective. In fact, profit is often regarded with suspicion and discussed in a rhetoric of “people vs. profits.” There is a suspicion that profit comes not from taking inputs and creating something more valuable from them, but from swindling buyers, workers or suppliers. This arises from an inadequate understanding of business and economics. A truly biblical critique of businesses would ask questions such as “What kind of profits?” “What is the source of the profit?” “Is the profit extracted by monopoly or intimidation or deception?”, and “How is the profit shared among workers, managers, owners, lenders, suppliers, customers and taxation?” It would encourage and celebrate workers and businesses who bring a wholesome profitability to their work. (See the article Economics and Society for more on this subject.)

Not all workers are in a position to know whether their work is profitable. Employees in a large corporation may have little idea whether their particular work contributes positively to profitability of the enterprise. Profitability, in an accounting sense, does not play a role in education, government, not-for-profit corporations, and homes. But all workers can pay attention to how their work contributes to accomplishing the mission of the organization, to whether the value they add is greater than the pay and other resources they extract. To do so is a form of service to the Lord.

The Valiant Woman’s profitable management of her household draws a word of exalted praise. “She is far more precious than jewels” (Prov. 31:10). This is no sentimental metaphor. It is quite literally true. A well-run enterprise can certainly earn profits over the years far exceeding the value of jewels and other stores of wealth.

A Diligent Worker Can Smile at the Future (Proverbs)

Back to Table of Contents

The Valiant Woman’s diligence gives her an eagerness for the future. “Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come” (Prov. 31:25). While the proverbs are not promises of personal prosperity, in general, our diligence does lead to a better future.

Those who till their land will have plenty of food, but those who follow worthless pursuits have no sense. (Prov. 12:11)
Anyone who tills the land will have plenty of bread, but one who follows worthless pursuits will have plenty of poverty. (Prov. 28:19)
The hand of the diligent will rule, while the lazy will be put to forced labor. (Prov. 12:24)

Diligence is not a guarantee against future sorrow or even disaster (see Job and Work at www.theologyofwork.org). Yet the wise person trusts God for the future, and the diligent can rest in the confidence that they have done what God asks of them for themselves, their households and their communities.

For an application of these passages in Proverbs about diligence, see "Require Every Employee to be Accountable" in Texas Nameplate Study Guide by clicking here.

The Wise Worker Is Shrewd (Proverbs)

Back to Table of Contents

The Valiant Woman sets an example of exceptional acumen in her work. The proverbs describe this virtue as “prudent” (Prov. 19:14) or “shrewd” (Prov. 1:4). We may tend to think of shrewd people as those who take advantage of others, but in Proverbs it carries the idea of making the most of resources and circumstances. If we understand shrewdness as “clever discerning awareness and hardheaded acumen”[15]then we see the kind of shrewd wisdom God intends for workers.

A Shrewd Worker Employs Keen Awareness and Judgment

This Valiant Woman’s shrewdness is displayed in the keen awareness with which she sources her materials. “She seeks wool and flax… She is like the ships of the merchant” (Prov. 31:13-14). Today’s manufacturer or craftsperson can be shrewd in the selection of materials or can unwisely settle for materials that will not hold up well. Investments in research and development, market analysis, logistics, strategic partnerships and community involvement may yield large payoffs in the future. On an individual level, good judgment is invaluable. An investment adviser who can match a client’s future needs with the risks and rewards inherent in various investment vehicles is performing a godly service.

A Shrewd Worker Prepares for All Known Contingencies

The Valiant Woman “is not afraid for her household when it snows, for all her household are clothed in crimson. She makes herself coverings; her clothing is fine linen and purple” (Prov. 31:21-22). Her material preparations cover every eventuality of the coming winter weather. She prepares the variety of clothing and blankets (“coverings”) her household may need, whatever the season may bring. The descriptions indicate fine or rich material (“fine linen and purple”), and the Hebrew word translated “crimson” (sanim) may be a copyist’s mistake for “double” (shenayim), that is, layered and warm.[16]

This woman is alert to possible problems and works toward solutions before the problems arise. Consider her preparations for her husband. In the middle of her preparations of clothing and coverings, she keeps in mind her husband’s role as a public figure: “Her husband is known in the city gates, taking his seat among the elders of the land” (Prov. 31:23). What would happen if it snows while her husband is in the midst of a civic affair? Not to worry, for “all her household”—including her husband—are suitably attired for any occasion. A modern image may make this a little clearer. Imagine a prominent statesman exposed suddenly to a chance storm. He reaches immediately for a crisp fedora and matching overcoat and overboots, while those around him cover their heads with scrounged newspapers and their ruined shoes pour slush onto their freezing feet.

A Shrewd Worker Seeks Good Advice

A persistent myth in some circles is that the shrewdest leaders scorn advice. Their very shrewdness consists of seeing opportunities that others are too low to glimpse. It is true that just because many people advise something, that doesn’t make it wise. “No wisdom, no understanding, no counsel, can avail against the Lord” (Prov. 21:30). If an idea is bad or wrong (“against the Lord”), no chorus of yes-men can make it good or wise.

But the myth of the genius who succeeds against all advice is seldom true in reality. Creativity and excellence build on multiple points of view. Innovation takes account of the known in order to step into the unknown, and great leaders who reject the conventional wisdom have usually mastered it first, before moving beyond it. “Without counsel, plans go wrong, but with many advisers they succeed” (Prov. 15:22). And in Proverbs 20:18 we read, “Plans are established by taking advice; wage war by following wise guidance.” The wise person uses the complementing strengths of others, even when striking into new territory.

A Shrewd Worker Improves His or Her Skills and Knowledge

The Valiant Woman “girds herself with strength, and makes her arms strong” (Prov. 31:17). That is, she takes steps to improve her ability to do her work. She makes her arms strong; she girds herself with strength. A shrewd person acts to improve her skill set or knowledge.

As the industrial economy in the developed world has given way to a technological economy, continual training and education have become indispensable for employers and employees. In fact, this is becoming the case in many emerging economies as well. The work you are prepared for today is not likely to be the work you will be doing 10 years from now. A shrewd worker recognizes this and retrains for the next opportunity in the workplace. Likewise it is becoming harder for employers to find workers with the skills needed for many of today’s jobs. The highest-performing individuals, organizations and societies will be those who develop effective systems for lifelong learning.

The Wise Worker is Generous (Proverbs)

Back to Table of Contents

The Valiant Woman is generous. “She opens her hands to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy” (Prov. 31:20). We are accustomed to hearing generosity praised in the Bible, and here the Valiant Woman is praised for it. But we must not reduce her generosity to a pleasant quirk in her personality. Her generosity is part and parcel of her work, as we can see in the relationship between verses Prov. 31:19 and Prov. 31:20.

She puts her hands [Heb. yade] to the distaff, and her hands [kappe] hold the spindle. (Prov. 31:19)
She opens her hand [kap] to the poor, and reaches out her hands [yade] to the needy. (Prov. 31:20)

Two different Hebrew words are translated “hand” (or plural “hands”) in these two verses. If we look at the original Hebrew, we see they occur in the order yade, kappe in the first verse, and in the reverse order kap, yade in the second verse. (Kappe is the plural of kap.) This “chiastic” structure of ABBA is common in the Bible and indicates that the entire structure forms a single unit of thought. In other words, her work is inseparable from her generosity. Because she is successful in spinning, she has something to give to the poor, and conversely, her generous spirit is an essential element of her capability as an entrepreneur/executive.

In other words, Proverbs claims that generosity and fiduciary duty do not conflict. Being generous to the needy out of the household’s resources does not reduce the owner’s wealth, but increases it. This counterintuitive argument appears throughout Proverbs. Most people curb their generosity out of fear that if they give away too much, they will not have enough left for themselves. But the proverbs teach the exact opposite:

Some give freely, yet grow all the richer; others withhold what is due, and only suffer want. A generous person will be enriched, and one who gives water will get water. The people curse those who hold back grain, but a blessing is on the head of those who sell it. (Prov. 11:24-26)

Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and will be repaid in full. (Prov. 19:17)
Whoever gives to the poor will lack nothing, but one who turns a blind eye will get many a curse. (Prov. 28:27)

The Wise Worker is Just (Proverbs)

Back to Table of Contents

The proverbs do not stop with commending generosity but go further to claim that caring for the poor is a matter of justice. First, the proverbs recognize that people are often poor because the rich and powerful defraud or oppress them. Or, if they were already poor, they have become easy targets for further fraud and oppression. This is abhorrent to God and he will bring judgment against those who do it.

Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker, but those who are kind to the needy honor him. (Prov. 14:31)
Oppressing the poor in order to enrich oneself, and giving to the rich, will lead only to loss. (Prov. 22:16)
Do not rob the poor because they are poor, or crush the afflicted at the gate, for the Lord pleads their cause and despoils of life those who despoil them. (Prov. 22:22-23)
Whoever sows injustice will reap calamity, and the rod of anger will fail. Those who are generous are blessed, for they share their bread with the poor. (Prov. 22:8-9)
One who augments wealth by exorbitant interest gathers it for another who is kind to the poor. (Prov. 28:8)

The bottom line is found in Proverbs 16:8, “Better is a little with righteousness than large income with injustice.”

Second, even if you have not defrauded or oppressed the poor, God’s justice requires that you do what you can to set things right for them, beginning with meeting their immediate needs.

If you close your ear to the cry of the poor, you will cry out and not be heard. (Prov. 21:13)
Those who despise their neighbors are sinners, but happy are those who are kind to the poor. (Prov. 14:21)
Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it. Do not say to your neighbor, “Go, and come again; tomorrow I will give it.” (Prov. 3:27-28)
Those who mock the poor insult their Maker; those who are glad at calamity will not go unpunished. (Prov. 17:5)

To regard helping the needy as a matter of justice, not merely generosity, is no surprise if we remember that wisdom rests on the fear of the Lord. That is, wisdom consists of living in awe of our God so that we seek to do what he desires for the world. God is just. God desires that the poor be cared for and poverty be eliminated. If we truly love God, then we will care for those whom God loves. Therefore, to relieve the poor and to work to eliminate poverty are matters of justice.

Notice that many of these proverbs assume personal contact between the rich and the poor. Generosity is not only a matter of sending a donation, but of working and perhaps even living alongside poor people. It may mean working to break down the segregation of the poor away from the middle class and wealthy in housing, shopping, education, work and politics. Do you come into contact with people of higher and lower socio-economic status on a daily basis? If not, your world may be too narrow.

Corporate Social Responsibility?

We can see how generosity and justice are important for an individual worker, but do they have any application for corporations? Most of Proverbs deals with individuals, but the section on the Valiant Woman addresses her as the manager of a household business. And as we have seen, her generosity is not a hindrance to her work, but an essential element of it.

Regrettably, some businesses today seem to lack the imagination or skill needed to operate in ways that benefit shareholders while also benefiting the people around them. Examples include companies attempting to defraud or oppress the poor, pressuring poor and powerless people into selling property below its full value, taking advantage of ignorance or misinformation to sell questionable products, and wringing excessive short-term profits from those who are vulnerable or who lack alternatives.

Why do such companies believe that grabbing wealth from others is the only—or best—way to make a profit? Is there any evidence that a zero-sum approach to business actually improves shareholder return? How many of these practices really lead to higher long-term profitability or power? Quite the opposite: the best businesses succeed because they find a sustainable way to produce goods and services that benefit customers and society, while providing an excellent return to employees, shareholders and lenders. Business and other organizations that meet social needs have an advantage when they need community support, worker commitment and social protection from economic, political, and competitive threats.

Government Policy?

Proverbs also demands justice from institutions other than business. In particular, the realm of government receives attention in the many verses dealing with kings. The message to them is the same as that to businesses. Governments can survive long-term only if they care for the poor and vulnerable and bring them justice.

If a king judges the poor with equity, his throne will be established forever. (Prov. 29:14)
By justice a king gives stability to the land, but one who makes heavy exactions ruins it. (Prov. 29:4)
Take away the wicked from the presence of the king, and his throne will be established in righteousness. (Prov. 25:5)
Righteous lips are the delight of a king, and he loves those who speak what is right. (Prov. 16:13)
It is an abomination to kings to do evil, for the throne is established by righteousness. (Prov. 16:12)

As with all wisdom, the foundation of wise governance is the fear of the Lord. “By me kings reign, and rulers decree what is just” (Prov. 8:15).

In speaking to kings, the proverbs would seem to apply primarily to political leaders and civil servants in modern society. But in democratic societies, all citizens have a role in government and public policy. Contacting our representatives and voting for candidates and ballot questions that bring justice to the poor and vulnerable are ways we enact the justice that comes from wisdom today.

Competition?

The Proverbs even extend the demands of generosity and justice to competition and struggle. “If your enemies are hungry, give them bread to eat; and if they are thirsty, give them water to drink; for you will heap coals of fire on their heads, and the Lord will reward you” (Prov. 25:21-22). The apostle Paul quotes this proverb word-for-word in Romans 12:20, and concludes with the challenge, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). Moreover, “Do not rejoice when your enemies fall, and do not let your heart be glad when they stumble” (Prov. 24:17). What? Are we to be generous even toward an enemy? Paul and the authors of the proverbs are convinced that when we do so, the Lord will reward us.

Does this apply to our attitude toward our competitors, whether individually (e.g., rivals for promotion) or corporately (e.g., competitors)? The proverbs do not discuss modern competition. But if they promote service even to an enemy, it is reasonable to infer they also promote service to competitors. This is not the same thing as collusion or oligarchy. The near-universal ascendancy of market economies is arguably due to the benefits of competition. But business, politics and other forms of competition are at heart forms of cooperation, albeit with significant competitive aspects. Society fosters competition in order that all may thrive. The proper penalty for failure in competition is not to be crushed or driven to poverty, but to be transformed or diverted to more productive work. Companies go out of business, but their successful rivals do not become monopolies. Elections have winners and losers, but the victors do not re-write the constitution to ban the losing party. Careers rise and fall, but the proper penalty for failure is not “You’ll never work in this town again,” but “What help do you need to find something better suited to your talents?” The wisest individuals and organizations learn how to engage in competition that makes the most of each player’s participation and offers a soft landing for those who lose today’s contest, but may make a valuable contribution tomorrow.

For more on this topic, see the article "Competition and Work."

The Wise Worker Guards the Tongue (Proverbs)

Back to Table of Contents

The Valiant Woman exercises care in what she says and how she speaks. The proverbs remind us that “to watch over mouth and tongue is to keep out of trouble” (Prov. 21:23). Sometimes, tongue-in-cheek, they also remind us that “even fools who keep silent are considered wise; when they close their lips, they are deemed intelligent” (Prov. 17:28).

There are more proverbs about the tongue than about any other topic. (See Prov. 6:17, 6:24, 10:20, 10:31, 12:18, 12:19, 15:2, 15:4, 16:1, 17:4, 17:20, 18:21, 21:6, 21:23, 25:15, 25:23, 26:28, 28:23, in addition to Prov. 31:26). A righteous and gentle tongue brings wisdom (Prov. 10:31), healing (Prov. 12:18), knowledge (Prov. 15:2), life (Prov. 15:4, 18:21), and the word of the Lord (Prov. 16:1). A perverse and unguarded tongue sheds innocent blood (Prov. 6:17), breaks the spirit (Prov. 15:4), encourages evil (Prov. 17:4), brings on calamity (Prov. 17:20) trouble (Prov. 21:23) and anger (Prov. 25:23), breaks bones (Prov. 25:15), works ruin (Prov. 26:28) and becomes “a snare of death” (Prov. 21:6).

Communication in some form is an integral part of nearly every job. In addition, social talk at work can improve working relationships, or damage them. What do the proverbs teach about wise use of the tongue?

The Wise Worker Avoids Gossip

Is gossip really a problem in the workplace or is it merely innocent gab? The proverbs point to its danger. “A gossip reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a babbler” (Prov. 20:19). Gossip causes strife. “A fool’s lips bring strife, and a fool’s mouth invites a flogging. The mouths of fools are their ruin, and their lips a snare to themselves. The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels; they go down into the inner parts of the body” (Prov. 18:6-8). “For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, quarreling ceases. As charcoal is to hot embers and wood to fire, so is a quarrelsome person for kindling strife” (Prov. 26:20-21). “Scoundrels concoct evil, and their speech is like a scorching fire. A perverse person spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends” (Prov. 16:27-28). Gossip is a violation of trust, the founding virtue of a wise person. “Whoever belittles another lacks sense, but an intelligent person remains silent. A gossip goes about telling secrets, but one who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a confidence” (Prov. 11:12-13).

Gossip casts other people in a questionable light, raising doubts about a person’s integrity or a decision’s validity. Gossip projects evil into someone else’s motives, thus showing itself a child of the Father of Lies. Gossip takes words out of context, misrepresents the intentions of the speaker, reveals what should have been kept in confidence, and attempts to elevate the gossiper at the expense of others who are not present to speak for themselves. It is not hard to see how destructive this can be in a workplace. Whether the gossip places a question mark over a person's reputation or the worth of a project or a position taken by a superior, the shadow cast by such words causes everyone around the gossiper to be more guarded and suspicious. This cannot help but inject division among workers, whether in an office, on a factory floor, or in an executive suite. Not surprisingly, St. Paul included gossip in his list of sins that are an abomination to God (Romans 1:29).

The Wise Worker Speaks in Kindness, Not Anger

The Valiant Woman “opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue” (Prov. 31:26). No one likes to be on the receiving end of an angry outburst, so we easily recognize the danger noted in a number of the proverbs: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Prov. 15:1). “Those with good sense are slow to anger, and it is to their glory to overlook an offense” (Prov. 19:11). “Those who are hot-tempered stir up strife, but those who are slow to anger calm contention” (Prov. 15:18). “One who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and one whose temper is controlled than one who captures a city” (Prov. 16:32).

The beauty of these proverbs is that they also provide a picture of the person who can deal successfully with anger. We should be “angry” (morally indignant) against sin, but we must not allow our “anger” (wrath) to control us. “Be angry but do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger” (Ephesians 4:26). The wise person gives a soft answer, overlooks an offense, and calms contention. The “teaching of kindness” is on the Valiant Woman’s tongue. Such people are “better than the mighty.” In the workplace such people are essential when irritations increase or tempers flare.[17] As followers of Jesus Christ we can live out the fruit of God's Spirit when we control our tongue, not only by avoiding angry speech ourselves, but also by being a calming influence in a sometimes-contentious atmosphere.

The Wise Worker Blesses Others

The blessings from a wise tongue rest on the reality that “a word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver; like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise rebuke to a listening ear” (Prov. 25:11-12). In the workplace we are often surrounded by anxious coworkers, and a good word may be just what they need. “Anxiety weighs down the human heart, but a good word cheers it up” (Prov. 12:25). We stand ready to give that good word because “a gentle tongue is a tree of life” (Prov. 15:4). Truly, “death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits” (Prov. 18:21).

In today’s electronic workplace, the “tongue” isn't confined to our audible words. Gossip, lies, and angry words can travel at light speed through emails, blogs, tweets, and social media. We are called to be discerning, to recognize that death and life truly are in the words we use with or against one another in the workplace.

The Wise Worker is Modest (Proverbs)

Back to Table of Contents

The proverbs commend modesty, both in attitude (avoid excessive pride) and in the use of money (avoid lavish spending). These virtues do not appear in the description of the Valiant Woman. But they appear so strongly elsewhere in Proverbs and apply so directly to work, that we cannot do justice to the book without mentioning them.

A Modest Worker is Not Proud

“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. It is better to be of a lowly spirit among the poor than to divide the spoil with the proud” (Prov. 16:18-19). Verse 18 may be the most famous proverb of all. There are others.

When pride comes, then comes disgrace; but wisdom is with the humble. (Prov. 11:2)
Haughty eyes and a proud heart—the lamp of the wicked—are sin. (Prov. 21:4)
A person’s pride will bring humiliation, but one who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor. (Prov. 29:23).

Are these proverbs commands against self-respect? No, they are calls to live in such awe of God (the “fear of the Lord”) that we see ourselves as we really are and we can be honest with ourselves about ourselves. If we fear the Lord, we no longer have to fear our own self-image, and we can let go of trying to puff ourselves up. It is to rest in the knowledge that God will ultimately triumph over this broken world of sin and destruction. The Lord knows the path of the righteous—even in the workplace. In the end, God lifts up those who put their trust in him.

A Modest Worker is Not Driven by the Lure of Wealth

The ancient sage, Agur—the source of the next-to-last collection of sayings in the book—left us a wise prayer. “Two things I ask of you; do not deny them to me before I die: Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that I need, or I shall be full, and deny you, and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ or I shall be poor, and steal, and profane the name of my God (Prov. 30:7-9). These are wise words for us in the workplace, “Give me neither poverty nor riches.”

We work to earn a living, to enjoy a measure of comfort and security, to provide for our families and to contribute something to the poor and the wider community. Is that enough or are we driven to strive for more? Agur links that desire for more to leaving God out of our lives, to ignoring our Creator and his purposes for us. Agur also prays that he will not live in poverty but that God would provide the food he needs. This is a legitimate prayer. Jesus taught us to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11).

But if we turn our work into a quest for ever-increasing wealth—greed, in other words—we have left the path of wisdom. We may seek wealth—consciously or not—because it seems to offer concrete evidence of our success and self-worth. But the comfort of wealth is imaginary. “The wealth of the rich is their strong city; in their imagination it is like a high wall” (Prov. 18:11). “The rich is wise in self-esteem, but an intelligent poor person sees through the pose” (Prov. 28:11). In reality, wealth does not bring an end to troubles. It merely substitutes the troubles of wealth for the troubles of poverty. “Wealth is a ransom for a person’s life, but the poor get no threats” (Prov. 13:8). Wealth cannot actually make us feel more secure. “Those who trust in their riches will wither” (Prov. 11:28). We should be on guard, especially against sacrificing the richness of life to obtain the riches of money. “The miser is in a hurry to get rich and does not know that loss is sure to come” (Prov. 28:22). “Do not wear yourself out to get rich; be wise enough to desist” (Prov. 23:4). In particular, the wise care more about their honest reputations than about their bank accounts. “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold” (Prov. 22:1).

The proverbs are not opposed to wealth itself. In fact, wealth can be a blessing. “The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it” (Prov. 10:22). It is the obsession for wealth that causes harm.

If nothing else, the proverbs of modesty remind us that our exploration of the book through the lens of the Valiant Woman may be a helpful guide, but it does not exhaust the contributions of the book to the theory and practice of work. All the proverbs are well worth further study beyond the glimpses seen in this article! We encourage those who find this article helpful to continue reading the proverbs to discover further meanings and applications, and to reflect on their own experience in the light of God’s wisdom.

Conclusion to Proverbs

Back to Table of Contents

In the end, our work habits are shaped by our character, which, in turn, is shaped by knowledge of our Lord’s revelation and our awe of Him. As we come to know our Lord more intimately, our character is transformed to become like God’s character. Indeed, “The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom” (Prov. 9:10). Wisdom brings life to all spheres of life, including the workplace, where most of us spend the largest part of our waking hours. Wisdom leads us to trustworthy actions, to diligence, to wholesome shrewdness, to generosity and justice for those in need, to controlling what we say, and to humble living. In wisdom, we trust God to shape our destiny and take charge of our ends. “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established” (Prov. 16:3).

Customers should be treated equally no matter their position in life. Ephesians 6:7-8, teaches we should “render service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free.”

This principle can also be related to the relationship between the employer and the employee. A successful business should not be influenced by a person’s appearance, status, or wealth. We are taught in both Romans 2:11-16and Acts 10:34 that God is no respecter of persons.

The employer should prayerfully consider his business practices and pursuits on a regular basis.

1. Treat Employees Fairly.

All people, including both employers and employees, are created by God in His image and given dominion over the earth (Genesis 1:26-27). We all have equal value in His eyes and are all worthy of respect (Colossians 3:11). Treat your employees the way you would want to be treated (Matthew 7:12), and do not show partiality (Ephesians 6:9).

Other verses:

“If I have rejected the cause of my manservant or my maidservant, when they brought a complaint against me, what then shall I do when God rises up? When he makes inquiry, what shall I answer him? Did not he who made me in the womb make him? And did not one fashion us in the womb?” (Job 31:13-15)
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28)
“Masters, treat your bondservants justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.” (Colossians 4:1)

2. Pay Employees Fairly.

Respecting employees and treating them fairly also means paying them fairly. When someone works for you, they earn their wages; their salary is not a gift you give them, but rather a debt you owe them (Romans 4:4). Paying them fairly includes paying them on time (Leviticus 19:13). Oppressing someone by denying them a fair wage or not paying them on time is a sin (Deuteronomy 24:14-15).

Other verses:

“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.” (Proverbs 3:27)
“Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness, and his upper rooms by injustice, who makes his neighbor serve him for nothing and does not give him his wages.” (Jeremiah 22:13)
“Then I will draw near to you for judgment. I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, against the adulterers, against those who swear falsely, against those who oppress the hired worker in his wages, the widow and the fatherless, against those who thrust aside the sojourner, and do not fear me, says the Lord of hosts.” (Malachi 3:5)
“For the Scripture says, ‘You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain,’ and, ‘The laborer deserves his wages.’” (1 Timothy 5:18)

3. Treat Customers and Suppliers Fairly.

Besides being responsible for how you treat your employees, you are also responsible for how you (and the people you manage) treat those you do business with. The Bible has many warnings about using false measurements (Deuteronomy 25:13-16), which, when buying or selling commodities, is a way to defraud people by not fully delivering or paying what was promised. You should be honest and fair in all your dealings (Leviticus 19:11). Integrity is the best long-term business plan (Proverbs 10:9).

Other verses:

“You shall do no wrong in judgment, in measures of length or weight or quantity. You shall have just balances, just weights, a just ephah, and a just hin: I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt.” (Leviticus 19:35-36)
“And if you make a sale to your neighbor or buy from your neighbor, you shall not wrong one another.” (Leviticus 25:14)
“It is well with the man who deals generously and lends; who conducts his affairs with justice.” (Psalm 112:5)
“Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.” (Proverbs 10:9)
“A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is his delight.” (Proverbs 11:1)
“Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues with injustice.” (Proverbs 16:8)
“Unequal weights are an abomination to the Lord, and false scales are not good.” (Proverbs 20:23)
“The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a snare of death.” (Proverbs 21:6)

4. Do Not Seek to Get Rich at the Expense of Others.

So what drives some employers to underpay their workers, overcharge their customers, or use deceptive marketing to make a sale? The love of money is the root cause of all those things (1 Timothy 6:10). If you value money over people, you will use people to get money. And if your goal is to get rich, you eventually won’t like what you are going to get (James 5:1-5). Instead of filling up storehouses (or bank accounts) here on earth (Luke 12:16-21), trust that God will provide what you really need (Matthew 6:31-33) and lay up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19-20).

Other verses:

“Whoever oppresses the poor to increase his own wealth, or gives to the rich, will only come to poverty.” (Proverbs 22:16)
“Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is crooked in his ways.” (Proverbs 28:6)
“He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves wealth with his income; this also is vanity.” (Ecclesiastes 5:10)
“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” (Matthew 6:24)

5. Be a Servant.

If you want to be a godly leader, you should focus on being a servant to all (Mark 10:42-45). That is the example that Jesus set for us and told us to emulate (John 13:12-17). Serve your employees, serve your customers, and humbly consider other’s interests ahead of your own (Philippians 2:3-8).

Other verses:

“But Jesus called them to him and said, ‘You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.’” (Matthew 20:25-28)
“And he sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, ‘If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.’” (Mark 9:35)
“And he said to them, ‘The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves.’” (Luke 22:25-26)

Put these principles into practice, and you’ll be the kind of boss that people want to work for and have an organization that people want to do business with. But don’t do it because you think it will help you be “successful” by the world’s standards. Do it to be faithful, to honor God, and to point others to Him (Matthew 5:16).

1. Use the Bible as a learning tool

The first cornerstone is the utilization of the Bible as the learning tool for God’s principles to create, expand and maintain any business on this Earth. With the Bible, we acquire the natural power within us to develop the bright light God gives us into success, prosperity and love.

As God reveals in detail His principles to you, a traditional business plan must follow to maintain the business idea.

Remember, “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” With this phrase, God empowers and allows you to comply with the forces of traditional business methods, using His principles to control the success of your destiny and the overall success of the Kingdom.

2. It is all about him, and for him

The second cornerstone recognizes and accepts that it is all about Him, and for Him.

To state it simply, our mundane ways of doing business do not work for us. During the application of the second cornerstone, you will be rewarded with power from God.

The ideas created by our ego and extenuated business plans that we make on our own will not lead us to the place of blessing, where we will have an abundant life in glory. God never intended for us to be able to “handle” life on our own, but designed it in such a way that we must depend on Him.

Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts shall be established. The Lord has made all for Himself, yes, even the wicked for the day of doom.

(Proverbs 16:3-4 NKJV)

Doing business for Him is the most open yet hidden secret on the Earth of doing business God’s way. God’s blessings are a supernatural empowerment of His goodness and love for you. He wants to take you to another level of grace, love, abundance and success.

When we do any business for Him, He will outdo himself every time, as He is revealing the ideas, and giving us the tools, talents, abilities and resources needed to receive abundance from Heaven.

Our Creator is amazing. He wants us to live in the fullness of the blessing. He anointed our head with the holy oil and made our cup run over to bless others.

As you receive a direct connection with God, He will move you forward from barely making it in business to having more than enough. He will present and open doors in a supernatural way. He will position your name with the right people, in the right places and at the right time.

Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

(Ephesians 3:20-21 NKJV)

The power that works in us is our desire to connect with Him, do business for Him and with Him.

3. God does not play games

The third cornerstone recognizes that God does not play games.

He never wants to deal with false promises, sin or misplaced priorities. He knows you from the end to the beginning.

God does not allow for negotiating. When we follow His ways, we live an abundant, successful and blessed life.

To apply this in practical business terms, look into your heart and recall the deeper business dream. Think of all we would expect to do upon opening a business. There are hundreds of logistic details that need to be decided on before the doors open.

It is always wise to get advice from the Creator of all, a God who has experience and fulfills promises. In this third cornerstone, you will have acquired power from your environment.

4. Your trust in him

To complete the equation for success in business, the last cornerstone is your trust in Him.

Your trust requires you to believe in Him and follow Him. As you believe in His promises, you will be able to follow his business practices, and your soul will create a bond of trust.

Thus says the Lord: Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart departs from the Lord. For he shall be like a shrub in the desert, and shall not see when good comes, but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land which is not inhabited.

(Jeremiah 17:5-6 NKJV)

Sadly, as problems arise, more trust is placed in society’s systems and technologies rather than God, and that leads to disappointment and loss of finance, family, friends and even the business itself. Trust means to believe in and rely on, regardless of the situations that arise—business-wise or personally.

We cannot say we believe in God, yet refuse to accept and embrace his principles that will bring change and reformation.

The Bible says, “Is there anything too hard for the Lord?” There is no limit to what God can and will do if you dare to believe in Him.

Give God your unconditional trust and faith to work with Him.

The 3 principles

As we focus on all the cornerstones of doing business God’s way, and bring them together, let’s look at 1 Corinthians 1:27.

But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty.

(1 Corinthians 1:27 NKJV)

This means the way God does things will sound totally foreign to all of us because His ways are opposite to our earthly approaches. Since most of us grew up in the worldly business system, His approach sounds different from what we have been taught and observed.

There are three basic principles of doing business God’s way.

1. No debt required

The first principle is that no debt is needed to develop and run your business—if you use God’s way.

When He reveals the dream of a business adventure to you, He will put the tools and resources in your hands to make it happen. No doubt about it.

The Lord will open to you His good treasure, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season, and to bless all the work of your hand. You shall lend to many nations, but you shall NOT borrow.

(Deuteronomy 28:12 NKJV)

When we take a business loan without any personal guarantee, we are not operating in the blessing of God, according to Deuteronomy 28:12. In fact, there are no scriptures within the Bible in which God commands someone to take a loan based on His direction.

2. We must not neglect family for business

The second principle tells us we must not neglect family for business.

With this principle we need to define the word “family.” According to Dictionary.com, (2014) “the family is a basic social unit consisting of parents and their children, considered as a group, whether dwelling together or not: the traditional family.”

In today’s modern society, the family has undergone significant transformations in its structure. The family is a social unit and can be described as “nuclear” if residing in the same household.

God wants to impart on us a clear understanding of His authority and His plan for us. He chose to reveal Himself and the clear purpose of His will in our soul.

Having made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Himself.

(Ephesians 1:9, NKJV)

Through Jesus, the Word made flesh; we have access to the Father and can share in the divine nature of the Holy Spirit. Through this revelation, therefore, God out of the abundance of His love speaks to men as friends (John 15:14-15) and lives among them, so He may invite and take them into fellowship with Himself.

By this revelation then, the deepest truth about God and the salvation of man shines out for our sake in Jesus, who both are the mediator and the fullness of all revelation.

The traditional structure of a family is crucial to other universal laws, human cornerstone principles, and teachings in the Bible. It is also important to understand what God wants from us to glorify Him, and not the family.

As you glorify Him and offer Him everything you do, He will pour blessings to you to overflow and pass into your family and future generations.

This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behaviour, hospitable, able to teach; not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous; one who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence.

(1 Timothy 3:1-4 NKJV)

1 Timothy 3:1-4 applies directly to Christian entrepreneurs who want to do business God’s way, because we are overseers of God’s works in business on this Earth.

If God has given you the vision to start or expand a business, the business you start is His work, and you are the overseer, or as we call it in the business world, the Chief Executive Officer.

If you neglect your family in time, space, and support, your life will not be successful.

3. Remember not to labour to be rich

The third and last principle in doing business God’s way is remembering not to labour to be rich in business.

Then, how do we make it?

Do not overwork to be rich; Because of your own understanding, cease!

(Proverbs 23:4 NKJV)

How, as a new business owner, can you become successful without working hard? Well, let’s first look at the definition of working.

It is defined as the physical, mental and spiritual work causing you extreme fatigue and frustration.

What I want you to focus on is fatigue and frustration. When you are working according to this definition (and the usage of this word in the Proverbs 23:4), the production of that work comes at the price of fatigue and frustration. It makes us feel devastated, as if we’ll never see the light at the end of the tunnel.

While working in our new business to be successful, according to Proverbs 23:4, we are leaning on our free will and ego instead of on God’s wisdom.

However, if you are connected with God, the Holy Spirit that lives inside of you will direct and guide you to focus and see success and prosperity with purpose.

As you trust God more and more each day to guide you in your business, declare boldly His word, meditate on His promises, listen to Him, expect natural and supernatural events in your life, and put Him first because your business should be done by His will.

In your prayer, be bold for God and confess with your mouth, soul and mind that you know with Him all things are possible. Tell Him every day you choose to stand solid in faith, that you trust Him, and you choose to receive every blessing He has for you.

Blessed be it! In the name of His son Jesus, you are asking, you are expecting, and thanking Him because you are receiving. Amen!

Santiago Rivera is an innovative leader who helps professionals with the entrepreneurial spirit push themselves beyond their limits, through his mentoring program and workshops. He believes that all people on Earth have a divine purpose and that they need only stop and listen to God’s directions to fulfill it. Through his personal business ministry, Santiago empowers each person to have a deeper, co-creative relationship with God. From Doing Business God’s Way, © Copyright 2014 by Santiago Rivera. Reprinted with permission from WillPower Press, Inc.

image

Monday, August 7, 2023

Biblical principles for business practices- wisdom

1) Be diligent and not lazy

2) Practice humility

3) Be a go-giver and not a go-getter

4) Make money honestly

5. Be bold

Honest Words

Honest Deeds

A Shrewd Worker Employs Keen Awareness and Judgment

A Shrewd Worker Prepares for All Known Contingencies

A Shrewd Worker Seeks Good Advice

A Shrewd Worker Improves His or Her Skills and Knowledge

Corporate Social Responsibility?

Government Policy?

Competition?

The Wise Worker Avoids Gossip

The Wise Worker Speaks in Kindness, Not Anger

The Wise Worker Blesses Others

A Modest Worker is Not Proud

A Modest Worker is Not Driven by the Lure of Wealth

1. Treat Employees Fairly.

2. Pay Employees Fairly.

3. Treat Customers and Suppliers Fairly.

4. Do Not Seek to Get Rich at the Expense of Others.

5. Be a Servant.

1. Use the Bible as a learning tool

2. It is all about him, and for him

3. God does not play games

4. Your trust in him

The 3 principles

1. No debt required

2. We must not neglect family for business

3. Remember not to labour to be rich

No comments:

Post a Comment