10 Commandments for a Godly Employer
/The Bible offers profound wisdom for every aspect of life, including how to run a business. As a Christian employer, your leadership should reflect God's principles of integrity, fairness, and righteousness. Proverbs and Ephesians 6:5-9 provide timeless instructions on how to treat employees and customers while honoring the Lord. Here are ten biblical commandments for a godly employer.
1. Lead with Integrity
Proverbs 11:1 – “A false balance is abomination to the Lord: but a just weight is his delight.”
Honesty should be the foundation of your business. Whether dealing with employees, customers, or suppliers, integrity builds trust and lasting success. Deception may bring temporary gain, but it ultimately leads to downfall.
2. Treat Employees and Customers with Respect
Ephesians 6:9 – “And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.”
Employees and customers are not just a means to financial success—they are people made in God's image. A godly employer fosters a respectful and fair work environment, avoiding harsh treatment or favoritism.
3. Provide Honest Products and Services
Proverbs 20:10 – “Divers weights, and divers measures, both of them are alike abomination to the Lord.”
False advertising, hidden fees, and subpar products go against God’s standards. Be transparent in your offerings and ensure that what you promise is what you deliver.
4. Pay Fair Wages and Charge Fair Prices
Proverbs 3:27-28 – “Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.”
Fair compensation and pricing are essential to a Christ-centered business. Employees should be paid justly for their labor, and customers should not be overcharged or deceived.
5. Do Not Exploit Employees or Customers
Proverbs 22:16 – “He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want.”
Using unfair labor practices, underpaying employees, or taking advantage of customers will not lead to true success. Ethical business practices honor God and ensure sustainable growth.
6. Deal Justly with All People
Proverbs 21:3 – “To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.”
Justice should be at the heart of every business decision. Treat all employees, customers, and business partners with fairness and equity, regardless of their background or status.
7. Provide Excellent Customer Service
Proverbs 22:1 – “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.”
Your reputation matters. A godly business is known not just for making money but for its honesty, kindness, and quality service. Treat customers with the respect and care you would want to receive.
8. Be Generous and Charitable
Proverbs 19:17 – “He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.”
God blesses businesses that bless others. Give back to your community, help employees in need, and seek ways to use your business for good. Generosity reflects God's character.
9. Seek Wisdom in All Business Decisions
Proverbs 2:6 – “For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.”
Every business decision should be guided by prayer, biblical principles, and wise counsel. Before making major choices, seek the Lord’s direction.
10. Recognize God as the Ultimate Authority
Ephesians 6:9 – “…knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.”
As an employer, you may have authority in your workplace, but ultimately, God is the true Master. Conduct business with humility, knowing that you are accountable to Him for your actions.
Running a business with biblical values is not always easy, but it is always right. When you lead with integrity, treat people justly, and seek God’s wisdom, He will bless your efforts. Your business is not just about profit—it is a platform for glorifying God and being a witness to others.
Are you applying these biblical principles in your workplace? If not, ask the Lord to help you align your business practices with His Word. A godly employer is a light in the marketplace, reflecting Christ in every decision.