Can God and Business Mix? Cast your vote.
I recently had someone who I respect very much give me this advice:
“I told you this before after noticing it on your website, but I really think you should take out references to God. If you want to keep them, that’s your decision – but I don’t think that will be very good for business.”
Interesting comment. First, a quick background:
This comment originally came from our previously published book, College Exploration, which helps high school students create the path to success in school, business and life.
Now, with the majority of our focus on working with businesses to create their path to success by creating online lead generation systems guaranteed to increase sales, the comment surfaced again.
In the past, in our book or on this site, I’ve mentioned God in the context of inspiring the individual to tap into why they are here on this earth, where they want to go in life and to have positive thoughts to assist in all aspects of life.
An example from the above mentioned book:
“Although this book has some very good tips and information, it will not work like a crystal ball and reveal everything that you need to be successful in life – that already lies inside of you.
I think my grandfather said it best when he wrote in a letter to me when I went on a retreat in high school:
“I will tell you that God should be a major part in your life, and you should ask His help in handling your life with a good and happy heart to help you know the direction you wish to go and to help you achieve your goals… Use your many excellent qualities to help make your country and the world become a better place for all… You have everything you need to be successful. Just put yourself in God’s hands and make it happen.”
I believe this is true for everyone. Inside of us, we already have everything we could need to be successful. We just have to put ourselves in God’s hands and make it happen.
Have you ever noticed when you set your mind on something you really wanted, and focused all of your attention on it, you normally got it? It’s the power that we all have that allows us to achieve anything.”
From the Creating the Ideal You blog post:
“For those supporters of the Law of Attraction, this is the same philosophy of seeing the vision of what you want in your life as a reality in the future. Taking this oneness with the universe a step further, I’d say it’s connecting with our inner (true) self, the power in the universe and the unifying love that drives this world. Whatever you call your creator, your God or the force the makes the universe go, that’s what I’m talking about here.”
From the 4 Steps to Rise Above to Achieve a Goal blog post:
“Step 1 – Get Into the Proper State of Mind
For me, as stated before, I find my best state of mind by getting my body in motion (intense fitness workouts), hearing great inspirational music (yes, that’s Pearl Jam for me) and connection to God (by using God here, I mean, whatever word you use for your Creator, Life-force, etc.). Do what ever it takes to get you there.”
… so those were some the previous uses, but now that we’re working with more and more businesses, will I continue to mix God and business? Is it appropriate? You can cast your vote in the comments section below.
What’s my vote?
I think you know my answer already… it is an emphatic “YES.”
Again, when I say God, I refer to whatever you call your Higher Power or Creator, but I would say it is even more relevant and important today in business than ever before. Why?
1. It creates a more positive outlook and thus a brighter future: Many people have been impacted by the current financial situation. People quite often associate prayer with what they want in the future. So, instead of looking at the negative aspects of the economy, it allows people to have a more optimistic outlook. Therefore, they can create a more positive attitude and outlook and thus find the tremendous number of opportunities that currently exist.
2. It provides a much needed support structure: Belief systems and religions have been around since the beginning of time. That belief in a Higher Power provides an opportunity to have faith and hope for a better future ahead.
3. The numbers: Surveys have shown that people do believe, so why not include the reference if it will create a connection with the client. Let’s refer to the Gallup Poll results published in Cracking the Millionaire Code: Your Key to Enlightened Wealth:
- 95% of North Americans say they believe in a Higher Power
- 95% said they pray to a Supreme Being
- 95% of those feel their prayers have been answered
- 82% are sometimes very conscious of the presence of God
- 82% feel a need to experience spiritual growth
4. Better to serve your niche than everyone: It’s been said if you try to be all things to all people, then you will serve no one. Unless you are huge company with millions of dollars for branding, you need to focus on your niche. Small to medium sized businesses must find a niche and cultivate it and thus create raving fans.
…so, if a few people don’t want to buy our books or use our online lead generation system because I believe there is a higher power at work in all that we do, then, I am fine with that. I’d rather work with the people who choose to work with me for who I am, rather than hiding behind what may be called politically correct. Plus, I feel that all I do in business is for a higher purpose – sure it’s to serve our clients, but it’s also to give back. This is why at least 10% of our profits are given to charitable causes.
Finally, if a rule of business is to make money, then it’s nice to see the phrase on our money:
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It’s hard to separate business, family, faith and personal interests. They all shape and make up the unique you, influencing and impacting one another through the years in skill attainment and achievement. If you are unhappy in a position or with your relationship with God, make a change for the better!
God made it all and owns it all. We are only stewards of His.
I feel that God put us here for a purpose. If we are not including Him in the process of our purpose then there is no point. Going through the motions of life without a purpose leaves you empty and unfulfilled. Seeking God in what our purpose is gives direction. I like what you have to say.
Thanks for sharing.
It’s interesting that Truett Cathy has always spoken of God in his life and in his business, and the overwhelming success of his Chic-fil-A restaurants is testament that God and business DO mix. Even being closed on Sundays has not hurt this success story. God is our Father and should lead us in all aspects of life and work.
It still amazes me how the mention of God can offend people. I really don’t care anymore. I’m tired of having to tiptoe around the issue, ie. call it your higher power etc…
I’d like to read a blog talking about what the Almighty God is doing in people’s businesses. I’d like to read a blog where the writer stood up and said that God is/has all the wisdom, mercy, and integrity we need. God’s ways/word get God’s results. You want more than a sucessful business? Take your questions and problems to Him. Ask for His guidance everyday. He is faithful. Not only will your business be blessed, you will be happy, content and empowered. To God be the Glory.
These are awesome comments! Thank you all so much for sharing.
The business examples, asking help in finding purpose, guidance and success are wonderful and inspiring.
Go forth to light, love and serve the world.
Leaving references to God out of the discussion in business is like leaving the mention of flour out of the discussion in a cake receipe. He is our essence in any conversation.He gives purpose and meaning to life and circumstaces that are incomprehensible to man.I do not know where your friend got his advise but he may want to consider the source. I would go with the sage wisdom of your Grandfather
God and Business can always mix. If God represents clarity and righteous in your business, then your business will flourish.
Happy Memorial DAY