Following God in business: a courageous stand
At the recent CEO Summit at Liberty University, Steve Green, president of Hobby Lobby, shared a powerful insight about the company’s Supreme Court case. The groundbreaking decision was a victory for religious freedom, but what struck me was how the Green family relied on a familiar story from the Bible for guidance during the trial and subsequent appeals.
In 2014, the Affordable Care Act required companies with over 50 employees to provide health insurance that covered abortifacients. The Green family, committed to their Christian faith, faced a tough choice: comply and dishonor God, or refuse and face $475 million in fines.
Through prayer, they turned to the story of Daniel, who stood firm in his faith despite the threat of being thrown into the lions’ den. Just as God protected Daniel from being harmed by the lions, he honored the Greens’ faith. Their courage led to a 5-4 Supreme Court victory, protecting religious freedom for business owners. Read the complete details of the case here.
This case reminds us that when we face difficult decisions, turning to God’s Word gives us the strength to stand firm. The Green family’s courage has benefited all of us, showing how following God in business can make a difference for others.
At the US Christian Chamber of Commerce, we’re helping business leaders across the country take bold, faith-driven steps in the marketplace.
This year, we aimed to bring together and help launch 10 Christian chambers in the Christian Chamber Coalition, and I’m excited to share that we’ve exceeded that goal, with nearly 15 expected by year’s end. These Christian Chambers are led by successful, courageous leaders who are stepping out in faith to make a Kingdom impact in their cities.
For me, leading the US Christian Chamber has required long hours, hard work, and the occasional difficult decision, but it’s a journey guided by my desire to honor God in my professional as well as my personal life. Like the Green family, I believe that when we stand firm in our convictions, God will use our efforts to bring transformation not only in our businesses, but in the broader marketplace.
Every bold decision we make in faith matters.
Just as the Green family’s decision paved the way for other companies to honor the religious convictions of their owners, the daily decisions made by Christian business leaders are paving the way for a marketplace that reflects Kingdom values.
Through our obedience and courage, God will be glorified—just as He was when Daniel emerged unscathed from the lions’ den.
