Ambition Framework: Imitating Jesus

Introduction 

First Ambition: Approval of God

Second Ambition: Manifesting the Victory of Christ

Third Ambition: Bear Fruit

Fourth Ambition: Taming the Tongue

Imitating Jesus is the fourth principle of the Ambition Framework and a vital part of marketplace ministry. Whatever our field, we will meet people who may never enter a church but will read the evidence of our lives. Discipleship is therefore not admiration but imitation: following Christ’s character, compassion, obedience, and way of serving in every sphere of life.

Key Scriptures: 1 Peter 2:21; Matthew 5:48

Christ left us an example so that we would follow in His steps. Our faith cannot be separated from our work; His character must shape our conduct in the boardroom, classroom, workplace, and open field.

Doing Business Until He Comes

Jesus said, “Do business till I come” (Luke 19:13, NKJV). This instruction calls believers to purposeful obedience and faithful service. Our work is not separate from discipleship; it is one of the places where discipleship becomes visible.

The following marks show what it means to imitate Jesus in the marketplace:

·         death to self;

·         imitation of Jesus;

·         servanthood;

·         obedience;

·         an indwelling Word;

·         productivity;

·         love for other disciples; and

·         exclusive devotion.

1. DEATH TO SELF

Key Scriptures: Luke 14:25–34; Matthew 16:24; Luke 22:42; Galatians 2:20

Jesus taught His followers to count the cost, deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. In the marketplace, counting the cost means planning carefully before starting a business, purchasing property, establishing a practice, or undertaking a major project. Sound planning includes assessing resources, especially finances, and ensuring that the assignment can be completed well.

Yet discipleship goes deeper than planning. Taking up the cross represents death to self-will. Jesus modelled this surrender when He prayed, “Not My will, but Yours, be done” (Luke 22:42, NKJ). Paul expressed the same truth in Galatians 2:20: “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.”

Marketplace reflection:

·         What will this plan cost?

·         What must I lay down to move forward?

·         Is this project part of God’s mandate, or is it driven by self-enrichment, self-gratification, or visions of grandeur?

2. IMITATING JESUS

Key Scriptures: Matthew 10:24–25; 1 Peter 2:21; Acts 4:13; 1 Peter 1:16; Matthew 5:48

Jesus is our pattern and plumb line. A disciple is not above the teacher; the goal is to become like the teacher. The early Christians were recognised because they had been with Jesus. In the same way, our lives should make His influence visible.

We are called to imitate Christ’s prayer life, compassion, brokenness, love, mercy, forgiveness, holiness, and obedience. Mature spiritual leadership can help us recognise blind spots, but every example must ultimately point us back to Christ.

Matthew 5:48 calls believers to maturity and wholeness. This cannot be achieved through human strength alone. As we follow Christ, obey His Word, remain humble, and allow Him to live through us, His character is formed in us.

3. SERVANTHOOD

Key Scriptures: John 13:13–17; Mark 10:45; Matthew 20:26–28; Philippians 2:5–7; Galatians 5:13; Matthew 23:11

Marketplace success can tempt us to develop illusions of grandeur, but Kingdom greatness is measured by service. Jesus washed His disciples’ feet and made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a servant.

A servant-hearted marketplace leader:

·         remains humble as influence grows;

·         uses freedom and authority to serve others in love;

·         does not consider any honest task beneath them; and

·         keeps an open hand, ready to help.

If we want to excel in the marketplace, our posture before Christ must remain one of humility and service.

4. OBEDIENCE

Key Scriptures: Matthew 4:19–20; Matthew 9:9; Matthew 21:5–6; Luke 5:5

Leadership can create the illusion that we hold all power and control. In the Kingdom, however, Christ holds the plumb line. The disciples responded to His call promptly: they left their nets, rose from their work, carried out His instructions, and acted at His word.

Obedience is not always easy, especially when a task appears beneath us. Yet when self is surrendered, every assignment becomes an opportunity to serve and reveal Christ’s love and grace. A disciple never outgrows humility.

5. THE INDWELLING WORD

Key Scriptures: John 8:31; John 6:56, 66; John 1:14; 2 Timothy 2:15; Psalm 119:11

Jesus said, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed” (John 8:31, NKJ). Crowds followed Him when they saw miracles, but many withdrew when His teaching demanded depth. True disciples remain when the Word challenges them.

The indwelling Word must be received daily. It gives wisdom and understanding, illuminates our path, directs our decisions, strengthens us in adversity, protects us from error, restores hope, and gives confidence when we face intimidating circumstances.

Marketplace practice:

·         Read and study Scripture consistently.

·         Test decisions against the Word rather than emotion or trend.

·         Receive fresh direction for the situation and field in which you are serving.

·         Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).

6. PRODUCTIVITY

Key Scriptures: John 15:8; Matthew 28:19; Galatians 5:22–23

Productivity in the Kingdom means bearing fruit. One of the clearest marks of a disciple is the ability to make other disciples. We cannot credibly teach a path we refuse to walk ourselves; our instruction must be supported by a life that can honestly say, “Follow me as I follow Christ.”

The fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—provides a practical measure of Christlike productivity. The more these qualities shape our lives, the more clearly, we imitate Jesus.

7. LOVE FOR OTHER DISCIPLES

Key Scriptures: John 13:34–35; 1 John 3:16

Jesus raised the standard of love: we are to love one another as He loved us. His love was sacrificial, demonstrated by laying down His life. Our love for fellow believers must therefore move beyond sentiment to practical self-giving. This love is one of the clearest public signs that we are His disciples.

8. EXCLUSIVE DEVOTION

Key Scriptures: Luke 14:26, 33; Romans 12:1

A disciple loves Jesus above possessions, relationships, personal ambition, and even life itself. Exclusive devotion means that Christ determines the direction of our associations and the trajectory of our marketplace decisions.

The New Testament picture of a living sacrifice echoes the burnt offering that was given wholly to God. Discipleship requires the same wholehearted surrender: a life that is holy, acceptable to God, and fully available for His service.

CONCLUSION

Imitating Jesus requires practice, patience, endurance, and devotion. The task is demanding, but the Holy Spirit helps us. As we lay down self, embrace servanthood, obey Christ, abide in His Word, bear fruit, love one another, and remain wholly devoted to Him, His character becomes visible through us.

This is how marketplace influence grows: not through self-promotion, but through a life that consistently reflects Jesus.

Marketplace Application: Study Jesus’ leadership style:

• His communication
• His compassion
• His clarity
• His courage
• His confrontation
• His consistency

Then model it in your business.

Grace and peace to you. 

Ambition Framework: Bear Fruit

 

Introduction 

First Ambition: Approval of God

Second Ambition: Manifesting the Victory of Christ

Third Ambition: Bear Fruit

Fourth Ambition: Taming the Tongue

In the Ambition Framework, we begin to understand God’s view on ambition and what it involves. We cannot think like the world thinks and still expect God to bless us in the marketplace. The only way we can know what God thinks is to turn to His Word and implement it in our lives.

We have already looked at two principles within the framework: the approval of God and manifesting the victory of Christ. Each is a potent revelation of God’s thoughts on an ambitious lifestyle. Being a disciple and following in Christ’s footsteps are not debatable matters with God. If we want to reign and rule within our spheres, then we must follow Christ. Through His demonstrated life, we learn to lay down self, obey each instruction from the throne, and overcome the enemy, the world, and the flesh. Without doing so, we won’t be effective in the Kingdom.

The third principle is the power of measurable results. In the marketplace, we focus on results, but Scripture defines this as bearing fruit.

Romans 7:4

Therefore, my brethren, you also have become dead to the law through the body of Christ, that you may be married to another, even to Him who was raised from the dead, that we should bear fruit to God.

Characteristics of Fruit

There are six characteristics of fruit that we can learn from to bear fruit in the marketplace.

· FINANCIAL

· REPENTANCE

· UNION WITH CHRIST

· IDENTITY

· TESTIMONY

· SOULS

 

Let’s look at each one individually.

FINANCIAL

The financial side of bearing fruit is a very important one. How you manage your finances tells God that He can trust you with more. Money is a tool that God gives you not to store in a storehouse, but to give as the Holy Spirit directs.  

Philippians 4:15-19

15 Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only.

16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities.

17Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account.

18Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God.

19And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (NKJ)

 

The fruit of abundant giving shows your trustworthiness. It shows that you are not seeking merely to enrich yourself. (Please do not hear what I am not saying… it is all right to have more than enough. To manage your money in such a way that you can pay your monthly expenses, maintain a savings account, or even make sound investments. But when you buy things just to parade them on social media or in front of friends, you enter dangerous territory because you misunderstand riches. 

Having money enables you to be the hand of God on this earth. This is why He blesses you with the wisdom and understanding to have more. However, the inability to give causes barrenness.

2 Corinthians 8:6-7

6 So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well. 7 But as you abound in everything — in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us — see that you abound in this grace also. (NKJV)

The Corinthian church was barren in giving.

Acquiring money is a grace gift, and God only gives this to people who have learned to manage it well. Enjoying the good things in life is evidence of your faithfulness and obedience. However, it is not your primary objective. Your objective should always be how to advance the Kingdom of God.

REPENTANCE

This is evidence of a changed life. Repentance shows that you place humility at the forefront. You cannot confess repentance but still live as the world does. In our spiritual household, alcohol, for instance, is not permitted at all. And all of the people I know live by that rule. You cannot confess God’s love while having alcohol on your breath.

True repentance means you leave sin behind. You make no room for it.

Luke 3:8

Therefore, bear fruits worthy of repentance, and do not begin to say to yourselves, `We have Abraham as our father.' For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones.

See also Matt.3:8. The Pharisees and Sadducees presented no evidence of change.

By Contrast:

1. The Prodigal son showed evidence of a changed mind by changing his direction - i.e. he went back to his father to confess his sins. (See Luke 15).

2. Zaccheus showed evidence of repentance by giving away half of his wealth and making restitution for his sins - See Luke 19.

UNION WITH CHRIST

This is growth in representing Him. Representation of Christ is a daily commitment to walk in union with Him. You cannot confess you are a believer while following your own mind. We must have the mind of Christ in all walks of life. How much more so in the marketplace where you meet all kinds of people, faiths, and cultures. Your union with Christ sets you apart from everyone so that you can come to a place where you can say with boldness, “Follow me as I follow Christ.”

John 17:21

"that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me."

John 15:5

"I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing."

THESE FRUITS ARE CALLED FRUITS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS:

Philippians 1:11

being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ to the glory and praise of God.

Righteousness is right standing with God by conforming to God’s attributes. This conformity comes through union with Christ.

These fruits are:

[1]. HOLINESS

Romans 6:22

But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end everlasting life.

Galatians 5:24

And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh, with its passions and desires.

JESUS IS THE "HOLY CHILD"

Acts 4:27 [KJV]

For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed,

Acts 4:30 [KJV]

by stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.

[2]. FAITHFULNESS

Ephesians 1:1

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints who are in Ephesus, and faithful in Christ Jesus:

Revelation 17:14

"These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful."

1 Corinthians 4:2

Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.

JESUS IS FAITHFUL

Revelation 19:11

Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war.

[3]. WISDOM

James 3:17

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.

JESUS HAS ALL WISDOM

Colossians 2:3

in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

[4]. TRUTH

Ephesians 4:15

but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head---Christ--

1 John 1:6

If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.

JESUS IS TRUTH

John 14:6

Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life..."

Eph.4:21

if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus:

[5]. LOVE

John 17:26

"And I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them."

1 John 4:12-13

12 No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us. 13 By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit.

JESUS IS LOVE

1 John 4:8

...for God is love.

Revelation 1:8

"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End," says the Lord, "who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty."

Christ is Almighty God.

All these attributes of Christ are manifested in us by our union with Him.

IDENTITY

These are FRUITS of the indwelling Spirit.

Galatians 5:22-23

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

Ephesians 5:9-10

(for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), 10 Proving what is acceptable to the Lord.

Those governed by the flesh produce the fruit of the flesh:

Galatians 5:19-21

19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, licentiousness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I

also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Note the words of Jesus:

Matthew 7:16-20

16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.

Luke 9:55

But He turned and rebuked them, and said, "You do not know what manner of spirit you are of."

TESTIMONY

Our testimonies attest to our Royal Priesthood through our good works. Our lives must be lived in such a way that they draw people to Christ. People are drawn not by what you say, but by how you live, how you treat others, and God’s grace upon your life.

Colossians 1:10

That you may have a walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

Example:

PRAISE (AS A SACRIFICE)

Hebrews 13:15

Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.

THE ROYAL PRIESTHOOD FUNCTION OF CHRISTIANS

1 Peter 2:9

But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvellous light;

These functions or roles are the good works or righteous acts of Christians and believers.

Ephesians 2:10

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

Revelation 19:8

And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.

When we fulfil these roles, we are serving God with reverence and godly fear.

Hebrews 12:28

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.

These functions are:

· PRESERVATION

· RECONCILIATION

· INTERCESSION AND PRAYER

· EVANGELISM

· SACRIFICES

· TEACHING

· SUPPORTING [STRENGTHENING]

These functions are ANTITYPES of the functions of the Old Testament Priest.

The functions of the Royal Priesthood are fruits of testimony.

 

SOULS

Every soul is important to God. Though we cannot convince every person we meet to follow Christ our life should be the Bible that reflects God’s love, acceptance and forgiveness to them.

John 4:35-36

35 Do you not say, `There are still four months and then comes the harvest'? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! 36 And he who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, that both he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together.

John 15:8

By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.

John 15:16

You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.

 

Marketplace Application: Fruit = measurable outcomes. Big thinkers track fruit rather than money. Kingdom thinkers track Kingdom fruit.

Toolkit Exercise: Create a “Fruit Dashboard” with 6 categories:

FINANCIAL • REPENTANCE • UNION • IDENTITY • TESTIMONY • SOULS

 

Continually measure yourself to determine whether your standard is still on par with God’s. If not, align yourself immediately.

Bearing fruit is something we must do to be a good steward in the Kingdom of God; it demonstrates our faithfulness and trustworthiness to God. 

Grace and peace to you

The Rest of God: The Atmosphere of Kingdom Productivity

 

When Scripture says God “rested” on the seventh day, it does not describe inactivity. It describes completion. God rested because everything necessary for creation to function had already been established. His rest is the environment of order, clarity, and dominion.

This becomes the pattern for Kingdom leaders:
Rest is not the absence of work — it is the presence of alignment.

In the marketplace, rest looks like:

• Decisions made from clarity, not pressure
• Leadership shaped by conviction, not fear
• Productivity flowing from identity, not insecurity
• Strategy rooted in wisdom, not anxiety

Rest is the internal posture that allows external excellence.

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Zion: God’s Chosen Resting Place in the Marketplace

Throughout Scripture, God searches for a resting place—a people who can host His presence and partner with His purposes. Israel struggled to enter that rest because of unbelief and misalignment. But then God declares something profound:

“For the LORD has chosen Zion… This is My resting place forever.”
Psalm 132:13–14

In the New Covenant, Zion is not a geographical location.
Zion is:

• The Church
• The New Jerusalem
• The Spirit‑filled believer

This means that you—as a Kingdom leader, entrepreneur, or professional—are God’s chosen resting place in your sphere of influence. Where you go, His government goes. Where you stand, His authority stands.

Your office, your boardroom, your listings, your negotiations—these become extensions of Zion when you carry His presence into them.

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Christ Seated: The Foundation of Marketplace Confidence

The New Testament repeatedly shows Jesus seated at the right hand of God. This is not a casual detail —it is the theological anchor of your authority.

Seated means:

• The work is finished
• The victory is secured
• The authority is established

This is why Hebrews 4 calls us to “enter His rest.”
We do not work for victory — we work from victory.
We do not build from pressure — we build from completion.

Every Kingdom assignment begins with a seated Christ.

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Christ Standing: Heaven’s Response to Earth’s Faithfulness

But in Acts 7:55–56, Stephen sees something different—Jesus standing at the right hand of God.

Why does Christ stand?

• To honour a faithful witness
• To testify on his behalf
• To judge injustice
• To receive him
• To identify with his obedience

This is Heaven’s posture toward believers who stand for righteousness in hostile environments.

When you refuse corruption, Christ stands.
When you speak truth in a compromised industry, Christ stands.
When you choose obedience over convenience, Christ stands.
When you carry Kingdom integrity into the marketplace, Christ stands.

His standing is Heaven’s endorsement of your earthly faithfulness.

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Active Rest: The Marketplace Posture of Kingdom Leaders

Hebrews 4 reveals that rest is not passive. It is the spiritual discipline of aligning with Christ’s finished work while actively engaging your assignment.

Active rest looks like:

• Working with excellence but without anxiety
• Leading with boldness but without striving
• Building with diligence but without fear
• Negotiating with wisdom but without manipulation

This is how Kingdom leaders “fight the good fight of faith.”
Not by pushing harder but by standing firmer.
Not by striving but by aligning.
Not by reacting but by ruling from rest.

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A Declaration for Marketplace Leaders

Speak this over your work, your leadership, and your calling:

“I take my place in God’s rest—the seat of Kingdom authority.
I am Zion, God’s chosen resting place in the marketplace.
I work from Christ’s finished work, not from my own striving.
I declare that Jesus is seated in victory, and I am seated with Him.
I declare that when I stand for righteousness, Christ stands with me.
I lead from rest, I build from rest, I negotiate from rest, and I create from rest.
His rest is my strategy.
His throne is my confidence.
His victory is my position.
I will not be moved.”

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Intentional Stewardship: Sowing Where Strength Grows

Biblical Foundation

Jacob demonstrated intentional stewardship by placing the rods only before the strong animals, ensuring the best results from his efforts. His actions were marked by precision and purpose, strategically stewarding his resources for maximum outcome.

Genesis 30:41–42 highlights that Jacob put the rods only before the strong livestock, distinguishing between the strong and the weak.

Genesis 30:41-43

⁴¹ And it came to pass, whenever the stronger livestock conceived, that Jacob placed the rods before the eyes of the livestock in the gutters, that they might conceive among the rods. ⁴² But when the flocks were feeble, he did not put them in; so the feebler were Laban’s and the stronger Jacob’s. ⁴³ Thus the man became exceedingly prosperous, and had large flocks, female, and male servants, and camels and donkeys.

Kingdom Principle: The Strong vs. the Weak

Not all opportunities yield the same results. Pioneers and reformers exercise discernment to determine where to invest their time, resources, and focus to achieve the highest possible Kingdom return.

Marketplace Application: Selective Investment

· Qualify Your Clients: Use initial conversations to assess motivation, financial readiness, and seriousness before dedicating your best resources. This ensures your energy is focused on those most likely to provide strong returns.

· Prioritise High-Return Deals: Direct most of your effort into transactions with the potential to multiply your income, influence, and impact.

· Say No to Low-Value Deals: Do not hesitate to turn down deals that are likely to drain your resources without offering significant value. This discipline allows you to concentrate on more promising opportunities.

Jacob’s method underscores the principle that not every opportunity produces the same yield. Pioneers in the marketplace apply discernment to maximise returns.

In the marketplace, this means focusing your best time and energy on deals that multiply. For example, investing your best resources in high-value listings or clients rather than pursuing every lead.

Ministry Application:

In ministry, pour your deepest investment into disciples who multiply, not those who merely consume. Invest your energy where it will bear the most Kingdom fruit.

Activation Question: “Am I spending my best effort on the strongest opportunities, or draining energy on the weak?”

Practical Stewardship in the Marketplace

Be intentional with where you invest your time, energy, and capital. Recognise that not every opportunity deserves your full attention. In property, for instance, it is easy to become distracted by time-wasting efforts, such as clients who are unwilling to do their own research and repeatedly ask unproductive questions. These clients may take advantage of your time at no cost to themselves, ultimately costing you valuable time and money.

Steward your team, clients, and platforms with care. Excellence in stewardship attracts favour, and intentionality is essential for maintaining high standards across every platform. Stewardship is a vital commodity, necessary for success in any environment.

1. Identifying Common Values

In both ministry and the marketplace, certain core values serve as the foundation for ethical behaviour and meaningful engagement. These values, when embraced, can lead to a positive impact in both spheres.

Let’s look at some of these Values.

Integrity

Integrity is a cornerstone value that is essential in both ministry and the marketplace. It involves being honest, transparent, and consistent in actions and decisions. In the marketplace, integrity builds trust with customers, employees, and stakeholders. In ministry, it fosters genuine relationships and credibility. By upholding integrity, individuals can create environments where trust and respect thrive.

 

1 Kings 9:4-5

⁴ Now if you walk before Me as your father David walked, in integrity of heart and in uprightness, to do according to all that I have commanded you, and if you keep My statutes and My judgments, ⁵ then I will establish the throne of your kingdom over Israel forever…
 
Job’s life is an exceptional testimony of integrity, and the reason God held him in high esteem. Read Job 31:

• He stayed true to covenant. His word was his honour. In business, relationships and towards God. Verse 1

• He walked in truth and not with falsehood. He knew God counted every footstep. Everything he did was scrutinized, even those things done in secret. Verse 4, 5

• He lived a balanced life. Verse 6

• His hands stayed pure, his focus and steps were in line with God. He was unwavering in his actions, and in his intent. Verse 7

• He sowed intentionally :8

• Deceit was not in his heart :9. Not against his wife or neighbour. He knew if he did so, his wife would carry the punishment of his deceitful actions.

• He didn’t despise his servants, no man, or woman. He believed in equality. Therefore, he was not gender biased. Verse 13

• He looked after the poor, the fatherless and the widow: Verse 16 and 17

• He didn’t abuse those in his care nor the orphan: verse 21

• He didn’t put his confidence in money, nor was riches his focus. He knew who he had to praise.

• He didn’t rejoice in another’s suffering: verse 29

•  Nor did he boast in his own triumphs: verse 29

• He did not curse or speak falsely about someone else.  Verse 30

• He opened his doors to the traveller: verse 32

• He was honest with God about his transgressions; he didn’t cover it: verse 33

• He was not manipulated by crowds or numbers. He stayed his course. He could account for each step and was blameless: Verse 35

• He has paid people fairly and never complained: Verse 36

• He took care of his land with diligence and patience’s: verse 37

Service

Service is another shared value that plays a crucial role in both contexts. In ministry, service is often seen as living out one's faith by helping others and meeting their needs. In the marketplace, a service-oriented mindset can lead to exceptional customer service, employee satisfaction, and community engagement. Emphasising service in both areas encourages a focus on others and a commitment to making a positive difference.

 

2 Corinthians 9:10-12

¹⁰ Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness, 

¹¹ while you are enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes thanksgiving through us to God. ¹² For the administration of this service not only supplies the needs of the saints, but also is abounding through many thanksgivings to God.

Leadership

Leadership is about guiding and inspiring others towards a common goal. Effective leadership in the marketplace involves setting a vision, motivating teams, and making strategic decisions. In ministry, leadership often includes spiritual guidance, mentoring, and fostering a sense of community. By developing strong leadership skills, individuals can influence and inspire those around them, whether in a business or a faith-based setting.

 

Examples of leadership:

Joshua

Through three major military campaigns involving more than thirty enemy armies, the people of Israel learn a crucial lesson under Joshua’s capable leadership: victory comes through faith in God and obedience to His word, rather than through military might or numerical superiority.

Nehemiah

Nehemiah, a contemporary of Ezra and cupbearer to the king in the Persian palace, leads the third and last return to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. His concern for the welfare of Jerusalem and its inhabitants prompts him to take bold action. Granted permission to return to his homeland, Nehemiah challenges his countrymen to arise and rebuild the shattered wall of Jerusalem. Despite opposition from without and abuse from within, the task is completed in only fifty-two days, a feat even the enemies of Israel must attribute to God’s enabling. By contrast, the task of reviving and reforming the people of God within the rebuilt wall demands years of Nehemiah’s godly life and leadership.

Timothy

Paul, the aged and experienced apostle, writes to Timothy, who is facing a heavy burden of responsibility in the church at Ephesus. The task is challenging false doctrine must be erased, public worship safeguarded, and mature leadership developed.

Compassion

Compassion involves empathy, kindness, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. In the marketplace, compassionate leaders, and employees create supportive and inclusive workplaces. In ministry, compassion is a fundamental expression of faith and love for others. By practising compassion, individuals can build connections and create environments where people feel valued and cared for.

 

Psalms 78:38-39

³⁸ But He, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity,

And did not destroy them.

Yes, many a time He turned His anger away,

And did not stir up all His wrath;

³⁹ For He remembered that they were but flesh,

A breath that passes away and does not come again.

 

Zechariah 7:8-10

⁸ Then the word of the LORD came to Zechariah, saying, ⁹ “Thus says the LORD of hosts:

Execute true justice,

Show mercy and compassion

Everyone to his brother.

¹⁰ Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless,

The alien or the poor.

Let none of you plan evil in his heart

Against his brother.’

 

Matthew 9:35-38

⁵ Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. ³⁶ But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd. ³⁷ Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. ³⁸ Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.”

Ethical Decision-Making Models and Processes

Ethical decision-making models offer a systematic method for addressing ethical dilemmas in both personal and professional contexts. By providing structure, these models help ensure that decisions are consistent with core values and reduce the risk of harm to stakeholders.

Importance of Ethical Standards

2 Timothy 3:16-17

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work”.

Matthew 7:12 

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

Ethical standards play a vital role in guiding behaviour and decision-making within organisations. They serve as a foundation for responsible actions, ensuring that choices are in line with the company's mission, vision, and principles.

These standards are informed by several established approaches:

• Utilitarian Approach: Seeks to achieve the greatest good while minimising harm.
• Rights Approach: Focuses on upholding and respecting the rights and dignity of every individual.
• Fairness Approach: Ensures that everyone is treated equally, regardless of their status or influence.
• Common Good Approach: Prioritises the well-being of the community and relationships within it.
• Virtue Approach: Base decisions on universal virtues such as honesty, courage, and compassion.

Ethical Decision-Making Models

Several models can assist individuals and organisations in navigating ethical choices:

· Ethical Decision-Making Model Approach: This model involves identifying ethical issues, evaluating alternatives, and making decisions that align with ethical standards.

· PLUS, Ethical Decision-Making Model: Incorporates additional filters—Policies, Legal, Universal, and Self—to ensure that decisions meet ethical criteria from multiple perspectives.

· Character-Based Decision-Making Model: Emphasises the character and virtues of the decision-maker, ensuring that choices reflect personal integrity and ethical principles.

By applying these models and upholding ethical standards, individuals, and organisations can approach ethical dilemmas with confidence, ensuring that their decisions are both responsible and aligned with their values.

Supporting Intentional Stewardship through Ethical Decision-Making Models

Intentional stewardship refers to the responsible and ethical management of resources, ensuring that all decisions are consistent with core values and contribute positively to the greater good. Ethical decision-making models provide the necessary structure to support this objective.

In a world driven by consumption and accumulation, the Bible offers a radically different approach to resource management—one rooted in stewardship, wisdom, and generosity. From Genesis to the early church, Scripture paints a clear picture: everything we have is entrusted to us by God, and we are called to manage it faithfully.

Creation and the Call to Stewardship

The foundation of biblical resource management begins in Genesis. After declaring creation “very good” (Genesis 1:31), God gives humanity a divine mandate:

Genesis 1:28

“Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air…”

This isn’t a license for exploitation—it’s a call to stewardship. We are caretakers of God’s creation, responsible for its flourishing and sustainability.

Principles for Faithful Management

Scripture offers timeless principles that guide believers in managing resources wisely:

• Ownership and Stewardship
  “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it…” Psalm 24:1
  We don’t own our resources—we manage them on God’s behalf. This truth fosters accountability and humility.
• Wisdom and Planning
  “The plans of the diligent lead to abundance…” Proverbs 21:5
  Thoughtful planning and foresight are marks of godly stewardship.
• Generosity and Sharing
  “God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7
  Giving isn’t just a financial act—it’s a spiritual discipline that reflects trust in God’s provision.
• Contentment and Guarding Against Greed
  “Keep your lives free from the love of money…” Hebrews 13:5
  True wealth lies in contentment, not accumulation.

Biblical Examples of Resource Management

• Joseph in Egypt
  Through strategic planning, Joseph saved Egypt from famine (Genesis 41). His story is a masterclass in crisis management and long-term vision.
• The Parable of the Talents
  Jesus illustrates the importance of using and multiplying what we’ve been given (Matthew 25:14–30). Faithful stewards are proactive, not passive.
• The Early Church
  In Acts 2:44–45, believers shared everything in common, ensuring no one was in need. This radical generosity built a thriving, compassionate community.

Environmental Stewardship

God’s concern for creation extends to the land itself.

“The land must not be sold permanently, because it is Mine…” (Leviticus 25:23–24)

We are called to care for the earth, using its resources responsibly and sustainably.

Living It Out Today

Biblical resource management isn’t just ancient wisdom—it’s a call to action. Whether it’s how we spend our time, use our talents, handle our finances, or care for the environment, stewardship is a lifestyle that honours God and blesses others.

Ethical Standards and Intentional Stewardship

Core ethical standards—including the Utilitarian, Rights, Fairness, Common Good, and Virtue Approaches—guide behaviour and decision-making within organisations. By adhering to these standards, individuals make choices that reflect intentional stewardship, prioritising the needs of stakeholders and the broader community while maintaining alignment with organisational mission and values.

Ethical Decision-Making Model Approach

This approach involves a step-by-step process: identifying ethical issues, evaluating feasible alternatives, and making informed decisions that align with established ethical standards. By following this process, individuals ensure that their decisions are both intentional and responsible, considering the impact on resources and all stakeholders involved. This supports intentional stewardship by fostering thoughtful and ethical decision-making.

PLUS, Ethical Decision-Making Model

The PLUS model introduces four key filters: Policies, Legal, Universal, and Self. These filters require decision-makers to evaluate their choices through various lenses, ensuring alignment with ethical principles and organisational values. By applying these filters, individuals can make intentional choices that demonstrate responsible stewardship of resources and uphold ethical standards.

Character-Based Decision-Making Model

This model centres on the character and virtues of the decision-maker. By focusing on personal integrity and ethical principles, it encourages decisions that are consistent with individual and organisational values. This approach promotes a culture of integrity and responsibility, further supporting the intentional and ethical management of resources.

By integrating these ethical decision-making models into their processes, both individuals, and organisations can ensure that their actions are guided by intentional stewardship. These frameworks provide a reliable basis for making responsible and ethical decisions, prioritising the well-being of stakeholders and the wider community.

Ethical Decision-Making Model Approach

Practical Application:

• Identifying Ethical Issues: In a business setting, this could involve recognising conflicts of interest, potential harm to stakeholders, or environmental impacts of business operations.
• Evaluating Alternatives: Consider different courses of action and their potential consequences. For example, when launching a new product, evaluate the ethical implications of sourcing materials, labour practices, and marketing strategies.
• Making Decisions: Choose the option that aligns with ethical standards and company values. For instance, a company might decide to use sustainable materials even if it increases production costs to uphold its commitment to environmental responsibility.

PLUS, Ethical Decision-Making Model

Practical Application:

• Policies: Ensure that decisions comply with company policies and industry regulations. For example, when handling customer data, follow privacy policies and data protection laws.
• Legal: Verify that decisions are legal and do not violate any laws. This could involve consulting with legal experts when entering new markets or signing contracts.
• Universal: Consider whether the decision aligns with universal ethical principles, such as fairness and respect. For instance, ensure that hiring practices are non-discriminatory and promote diversity.
• Self: Reflect on whether the decision aligns with personal values and the company's mission. For example, a leader might choose to prioritise employee well-being over short-term profits, reflecting their commitment to a positive workplace culture.

Character-Based Decision-Making Model

Practical Application:

• Personal Integrity: Encourage employees to make decisions that reflect their personal integrity and ethical principles. For example, a salesperson might choose to be honest about product limitations rather than making exaggerated claims to close a deal.
• Virtues: Promote virtues such as honesty, courage, and compassion in the workplace. For instance, a manager might demonstrate courage by addressing unethical behaviour, even if it involves confronting a senior colleague.
• Role Modelling: Leaders can set an example by consistently making ethical decisions and demonstrating integrity. This can create a culture of trust and accountability within the organisation.

By applying these ethical decision-making models in the marketplace, individuals and organisations can ensure that their actions reflect intentional stewardship. These models provide a framework for making responsible and ethical decisions, prioritising the well-being of stakeholders and the community.

In closing:

No matter where you work or minister, see it as your dragnet. An opportunity to live out Matthew 28. This is the place where you will make fishers of men. When you put God first and apply His principles, you become more intentional in your actions and more profitable in your business.

The Kingdom should always be your focus, so exercise discernment in time, resources and focus. Apply this also in your ministry. Not every opportunity will produce the same result.

Continually ask yourself: Am I spending my best effort on the strongest opportunity, or am I draining my energy on the weak?

Be excellent in stewardship. It attracts favour and maintains high standards across every platform.

Identify your values and live accordingly. Your focus is always on leading people to Christ. Therefore, you must be an exact representation of Christ to all men. Excell in integrity, in service, in leadership, and compassion, while having ethical decision-making models in place.

And lastly, be accountable to someone who you trust to give you honest feedback. The father-son wineskin is more than a mentor. It is relational and biblical.