How Business Owners Can Lead with Purpose, Stewardship, and Gratitude

The passage in Psalms 8:4-6 says:

"What is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him? For You have made him a little lower than the angels, and You have crowned him with glory and honor. You have made him to have dominion over the works of Your hands; You have put all things under his feet."

As business owners, there is a profound lesson we can draw from this verse, even when approached from a practical perspective. It reminds us of three important principles: responsibility, stewardship, and gratitude.

Responsibility: Acknowledging Our Role

The idea that humans are given dominion over the works of creation can resonate deeply with business owners. Every business is a microcosm of this responsibility. Employees, clients, and even your processes and goals are, in a sense, entrusted to you. Recognizing this responsibility can transform how you approach decision-making—it’s not just about profit, but also about impact.

For example, how do your actions as a leader influence your team? Are you empowering them to grow? Are your clients benefitting from your services in meaningful ways? Understanding the weight of your role helps you lead with purpose and clarity.

Stewardship: Managing What Has Been Entrusted to You

Stewardship is another key theme. The resources you have, whether financial, human, or natural, are entrusted to you, not just for personal gain, but for responsible management. For accountants, stewardship is often synonymous with accountability. In your business, this might mean maintaining transparent financial records, making ethical decisions, and reinvesting wisely to foster sustainable growth.

Think of it this way: your business is not just an entity you own, but something you are called to nurture. This perspective encourages long-term thinking. Are you building something that will outlast you? Are you creating a legacy that positively influences others?

Gratitude: Recognizing the Bigger Picture

The line about being "crowned with glory and honor" is a humbling reminder of the opportunities and talents we’ve been given. As business owners, it’s easy to get caught up in the challenges—deadlines, cash flow, competition. But when we pause to reflect on the privilege of owning a business, it can shift our mindset. Gratitude allows us to lead with grace, treat others with respect, and find joy even in mundane tasks.

For instance, consider how you’ve grown as an entrepreneur. Perhaps challenges have refined your problem-solving skills. Maybe the relationships you’ve built through your business have enriched your life in unexpected ways. Gratitude creates a sense of fulfillment beyond the numbers.

Practical Steps for Business Owners

Here are three actionable takeaways inspired by these reflections:

1. Set Clear Values: Just as you’ve been entrusted with your business, define core values that guide your operations. Let these values influence how you treat your employees, serve your customers, and interact with your community.

2. Evaluate Your Impact: Regularly assess how your business is making a difference. Are you creating value for others? Are you investing in practices that uplift your team and customers?

3. Practice Gratitude: Keep a journal or list of things you’re thankful for in your business. Reflect on wins, both big and small, and the lessons learned from setbacks.

Closing Thoughts

Psalms 8:4-6 reminds us that we are part of a bigger picture, with responsibilities and opportunities to make a difference. Whether you view this through the lens of faith or simply as a practical philosophy, the principles of responsibility, stewardship, and gratitude can transform how you approach your business. When we lead with purpose and care, we reflect the best of what it means to be entrusted with something meaningful.