Everybody wants money, and it’s hard to accomplish many things without it. However, the unnerving dark side to attaining riches is falling into idolatry and believing money is power. The power lies in God’s authority and, as you partner with Him to build your business, it’s vital not to lose sight of your purpose. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to change your life, lifestyle and legacy with the uncapped revenue a business can bring but, as a child of God, there are divine purposes for what God wants to use the profit.
I’ve loved watching Shark Tank since the day it debuted and, before I had a better understanding, I was always shocked by how much money businesses spent just to keep running. Oftentimes, new businesses would be happy to break even after the fiscal year and the sharks found it acceptable when growing businesses made a net profit of 10% or less. I found myself thinking, “What is the point?”
Along the way in my business journey, God revealed to me the point is to bless the hands in my business and use profits to elevate lives and causes. Luke 12:33 says, “Sell your possessions and give to those in need. This will store up treasure for you in heaven! And, the purses of heaven never get old or develop holes. Your treasure will be safe; no thief can steal it and no moth can destroy it.”
A common question the sharks ask entrepreneurs is if the net profit was after paying themselves. Although they are likely asking these questions to gauge how quickly profit will come to them, wisdom tells us that God will always cover our needs, and we should see how much profit we can use for God’s Kingdom. Don’t be a money hoarder or let financial goals and possessions become a hindrance to giving generously. The treasure we store up in heaven will be better than anything Earth has to offer (Mark 10:21-23). Money comes and goes rapidly but not the riches of heaven. If you’re having a hard time believing this, think about how common it is to forget what you spent your money on last month but you can easily remember how you felt when someone thanked you for your generosity. That’s proof of a healthy heaven bank account, and you should chase that value because it will never fade or fluctuate.
But, here’s the thing – God is so good that He still rewards us in our Earthly lives, too. We have all we need to live a blessed life and give to others. Remember, God created all the resources we have, and He knows how best to use them; so I pray we take the easy road and let God determine where our profits go as His omnipresence secures everyone’s future.
Hopefully, now you understand that, as a child of God, you’re not in business to take financial control of your life but to be included in the benefits He bestows on everyone involved in your business, and this includes money! You’re doing great, now go spread peace and joy through your profits. I have faith in you.
Sheridan C. Watkins is a journalist and the owner of Perennial Peaces, a jewelry and gifts brand focused on transcending self worth to all women. Her true work began after climbing out of a dark place with the help of God and therapy, and her life mission is to provide tangible peace through her Divine gifts to help women heal and transform their lives. Follow the mission on Instagram and Facebook: @perennialpeaces.
