Biblical Principles of Business (Proverbs 20:12-19)

Old Testament scholar, Bruce Waltke, sees a common theme uniting Proverbs 20:12-19 – speech and commerce. Whether one is the merchant or the customer, the Bible actually offers wise counsel on how to effectively and uprightly conduct business.

The founder of Chick-fil-A, S. Truett Cathy, said, "It has proven to my interest financially as well as convenience of permitting our people to have Sunday off where they can forget the business and other interests – devote it to the family as well as to worship if they so choose."

He later told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, "I see no conflict whatsoever between Christianity and good business practices. People say you can't mix business with religion. I say there's no other way."

Our text gives us the following eight practical principles to apply within the world of business.

Receptors to Verify, 20:12

Human Responsibility, 20:13

Deceptive Haggling, 20:14

Valuable Words, 20:15

Imprudent Cosigning, 20:16

Dishonest Speech, 20:17

Wise Planning, 20:18

Avoiding Gossip, 20:19