Let’s cut through all the smoke and mirrors and talk about the real world of business. To be honest, it is a place of violence — both to the spirit and the body. It is an arena where pressure, ulcers, and manipulation are standard fare. Where verbal abuse, slander, emotional and physical breakdowns are a common occurrence. It’s stress city, but quite honestly, down right addictive.
The real world of business can be likened to a boxing match: 15 rounds of abuse, blood, and loosened teeth. Beating up on the other guy. It is about defiance — coming up against a superior force and refusing to give in. Think Rocky. Chuck Norris. Clorox’d preppy wimps need not apply. It’s not just about money, but about winning. Outsmarting the other guy at his game. It’s about getting there first with the most. Clinching the deal. Getting the contract. Controlling the market.
The real world of business is about being on top of the sweaty pile of those who came in second… or last. After all no one knows or cares who is the second richest guy in the world. But we all know about Bill Gates, Michael Jordan and Tom Cruise. Like Lombardi said, “Show me a good loser and I‘ll show you a loser.” Therefore, losing is not an option. Winning is the only option.
How then are businessmen who are followers of Christ to relate to this “real world of business”?
1. By concentrating primarily on serving the public with superior products and service, rather than on beating out the competition. After all, is it not God who promises to meet our needs? (Hebrews 13:5; Philippians 4:19)
2. By demonstrating in the rough and tumble of business that meekness is not weakness, but strength under control — steel character covered with velvet. (Matthew 5:5)
3. By exemplifying Jesus who was tough on liars and hypocrites, while willingly giving up His personal rights:
“Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps… When they hurled their insults at Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats. Instead, He entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.” (1 Peter 2:21, 23; See Matthew 23:33)
4. By choosing to be so Biblically based, and thus so radically different from the average person in the “real world of business,” that people will demand an explanation. After all, isn’t that what true witnessing is all about? (1 Peter 3:15; Matthew 5:13, 16)
