Thriving in a competitive business world Ten business strategies from 1 and 2 Samuel

The Bible is an amazing book. There are so many principles, examples, and lessons for us in it. In the Bible we learn about God’s nature, man’s origins, how to raise children and lead a nation, and so much more. The epicenter of the Bible though is the Gospel of Jesus. The good news is that Jesus, according to the Bible, was supernaturally born, lived a righteous life, died an unjust death, was buried, miraculously rose from the dead, was seen by hundreds before ascending to heaven, and promised to return to earth again. This good news, the gospel, is so transformative, that it turns our perspective inside out. The gospel tells us we can be content with little, we can rejoice in tribulations and we can rely on God’s strength when we are weak. The teachings of the Bible can be applied to every aspect of our lives. If you are new to the world of business, or you are seeking to cement your position and thrive, the Bible offers free and sound advice. Let’s examine ten strategies from the books of 1st and 2nd Samuel.

1. Always Seek Divine Guidance: Like David who sought

KENYATTA E. LEWIS

Kenyatta Lewis is the pastor of Harvest Bible Chapel, a growing church committed to taking followers of Jesus deeper and going further in their faith. Besides loving, serving, and helping people he has watched the extended Director’s cut of the Lord of the Rings trilogy multiple times.

God's wisdom before making crucial decisions, business leaders can benefit from seeking divine guidance through prayer and reflection.

2. Surround Yourself with Trusted Advisors: David surrounded himself with a council of wise and loyal advisors. In business, building a team of trusted mentors, colleagues, and advisors fosters diverse perspectives, provides valuable insights, and helps navigate challenges with wisdom and discernment.

3. Embrace Humility and Servant Leadership: David's humble spirit and willingness to serve his people earned him respect and loyalty. In today's business landscape, leaders who embody humility, empathy, and a servant's heart inspire trust, foster collaboration, and create a positive work culture.

4. Adaptability and Flexibility: David's ability to adapt and respond to changing circumstances, such as transitioning from shepherd to warrior, to king, teaches us the value of agility in business. Successful companies/leaders remain nimble, embracing change, and seizing new opportunities as they arise.

5. Strategic Alliances and Partnerships: David's alliance with the House of Jonathan exemplifies the power of strategic partnerships. In business, forging mutually beneficial alliances and partnerships can expand reach, leverage strengths, and create win-win scenarios for growth and success.

6. Ethical Business Practices: Samuel's words to the Israelites, warning against dishonesty and corruption, remain relevant today. Operating with integrity, honesty, and ethical business practices builds trust with stakeholders, enhances reputation, and fosters long-term sustainability. It also sets you apart from your competitors.

7. Nurture Talent: David's investment in mentoring and developing the next generation, such as his relationship with Solomon, highlights the importance of nurturing talent within organizations. Business leaders can cultivate talent through mentorship programs, training initiatives, and providing growth opportunities and fostering a culture of continuous learning.

8. Wise Decision-Making: David listened to Abigail’s advice to not slaughter her husband Nabal. He also sought God’s advice about where to go when he was on the run from Saul. In business, informed risk-taking, coupled with careful evaluation, minimizes potential pitfalls and maximizes opportunities for growth.

9. Resilience and Perseverance: David's journey, from shepherd to king, was marked by numerous challenges and setbacks. Business leaders can draw inspiration from his resilience, adapting in the face of adversity, learning from failures, and persevering towards long-term goals. The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of resilience in business.

10. Legacy and Succession Planning: David's preparations for Solomon's succession exemplify the importance of legacy and succession planning. In business, effective succession planning ensures continuity, identifies future leaders, and paves the way for a smooth transition of leadership.

Whether you are a young entrepreneur or a veteran business leader, the Bible offers timeless wisdom for our times and ages. As you search it and prayerfully listen to what it says, you will be able to thrive in any business market.