There are certain things we rarely feel like doing, yet we do them anyway. What are those things for you? It could be taking your kids to school, but you know if they don’t go, they won’t receive the education they deserve and you love them too much for that to happen. So, in this instance, your love for them motivates you to wake them up to get them ready in time for school. You don’t get paid extra to do it and you may never hear any gratitude, but if it means you’ll raise intelligent and hard-working contributors to society, you’ll do it all over again.

Now, think about your business or future business plans. As a child of God, you are set apart, and there’s a greater reason why it exists. You need to be in the right business for the right reasons, so ask yourself, “If I never made another penny through my business, would I still do it?” Even if it’s on a smaller scale or in a different iteration, would you do it without hesitation? This is a great indication that your love for the people you serve is keeping your business running. 

We’ve all heard stories of different industry markets declining, yet there always seem to be a few businesses that are thriving amid the chaos. I’ve always believed it’s likely because they trust God and love people. They put their heart into their work despite things around them crumbling because they know someone needs what they offer and they want to provide it, wholeheartedly. Psalm 91:7 says, “A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.” 

As long as your business is fulfilling the mission of reaching God’s people, your business will succeed. That’s why scriptures like Proverbs 4:23 are so important to meditate on. It’s not your marketing and it’s not your administrative team; your heart is the most important leadership tool you have.

Here’s a funny story I’ve been experiencing lately – as I’ve been running my jewelry business, I’ve tried many different tips and tactics to increase my following and brand awareness. However, something I’ve committed to every week is to pray for anyone that comes to my page. I used to post prayers only on my Instagram stories, but God told me to make it into a graphic and post it weekly on my page. I don’t use any hashtags or tag any locations or people like I do with other posts. Yet, these prayers have gotten the most engagement! Hundreds of people who don’t follow me somehow come across these prayers, repost and comment. I’m astounded every time. 

God understood that I love to make people happy through jewelry, so He gave me Perennial Peaces to steward over, but He has a message to spread and my heart has to be right to partner with Him and create these prayers that aren’t directly related to jewelry. If my heart is not in the right place, I will miss opportunities to help and love His people. And, if I’m not helping and loving His people, I’m not useful! I’ll be susceptible to having a rougher journey to His blessings.  

Child of God, I pray that you put your whole heart into your business and let God take care of the rest. Whatever you are lacking, He will supply. Just focus on guarding your heart (Proverbs 4:23) and loving the people you serve through the business you choose. 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.