How Should a Christian Business Owner Manage Health Benefits?
The Tale of Two Paths
The Bible gives us two paths: walk in God’s path or walk in the way of the world. The way of the Lord is wisdom, and the way of the world is folly (Prov 1:1-7, Psalm 1).
The Two Paths of Health Benefits
As Christian employers, we face two paths regarding health benefits: the traditional path of doing what we have always done or what everyone else does, and the innovative path inspired by a Christian worldview.
Path 1: The Norm
We are all familiar with the traditional style of health benefits, which involves selecting a large insurance carrier to manage all our needs for a premium price. This path may feel safe and comfortable because it is widely practiced, but it often leaves employees dissatisfied.
Consider John’s company. He follows a traditional plan, paying his costs without much thought until the annual renewals. This year, his renewal rate is 15% higher. Frustrated, he contemplates accepting it but instead starts asking his employees if they are satisfied.
He discovers that out of 20 employees, only three use the company plan due to its high cost and deductibles. The rest sought alternatives because they found the plan unaffordable and inadequate. John begins to wonder if there’s a better way.
Path 2: A Christian Worldview
Mark, another business owner, shares his experience. He was in a situation similar to John’s but decided to consider his responsibility to his employees through a biblical perspective.
He says, “I felt called to provide something better for my employees, as God has called me to be a faithful steward.”
Mark explains the changes he made to his health plan:
- Cut out waste and greed from major carriers (Micah 6:8).
- Ensured price transparency to see the money’s management (Psalm 15:2).
- Provided advocates to help employees get the care they need (Gal 6:2).
- Offered many zero-cost benefits to employees (Matt 22:39).
- Encouraged wise spending and employee ownership in the plan (Luke 12:48b).
- Adopted a holistic approach to overall health of mind and body (1 Cor 3:16–17; 6:19–20).
John is amazed. His current plan offers none of these benefits.
Mark explains further that this approach saved him 20% on plan costs, improved employee morale, and led to better employee health and fewer sick days. Mark’s plan also provided end-of-year refunds on unused funds, which he used to give Christmas presents to his employees.
Which Path Will You Choose?
As Christian employers, we should strive to love our employees and do what pleases the Lord. When we walk in ways that please Him, we often find better outcomes. Business owners must steward well and care for both employees and themselves. If you have not considered whether your benefits plan honors Christ and loves people, review it today and seek guidance to make necessary changes.
