For over two decades, as I have been in the business world as a business owner as well as working in large non profit organizations, as well as international corporations, as well as serving in the non-profit sector, I have learned many lessons and observed many approaches and philosophies of the ways people conduct themselves in the marketplace and when in pursuit of business.

The lessons emerged through my relationships with other business leaders, government officials, customers while performing work for them, suppliers and additional lessons have been learned as I served in churches, Christian schools and universities, and para-church ministries.

The following principles guide the development of my business actions and relationships. I’ve carefully searched the scriptures and confirmed the biblical accuracy of the principles. Wiser persons have already discovered similar principles and the list is surely longer than the one enclosed, but this list is born by the path I’ve traveled.

I have shared these ideas with my children, family members, friends, partners and potential partners, with the hope that they may benefit from my experiences. And now, through a series of several articles and postings, I am sharing them with you, the blogging and internet world.

I hope that you will find the content helpful, encouraging, substantial, and that it will encourage you in your own efforts to integrate and live out your Christian faith in the marketplace.

The postings cover the following 7 Key Areas:

* Part 1: The PURPOSE of a Christian owned or ran company/organization

* Part 2: Guideline for Determining Personal & Professional Pursuits

* Part 3: Thoughts on PLANNING

* Part 4: Strategies for FINANCIAL MATTERS & DECISIONS

* Part 5: Advice on PARTNERSHIPS & STRATEGIC ALLIANCES

* Part 6: How to establish and determine AGREEMENTS in business

* Part 7: PEOPLE TO AVOID in business

Establishing and Determining Agreements in Business

Business relationships must be built on well-defined and accurately written Agreements between the parties prior to commencing work. The Agreements must specify expectations, roles who will do what and under what conditions, and degree and line of authority.

1. Agreements are statements of one’s word of honor. One’s word is to be clear, as the Lord says, “Let your statement be ‘Yes, yes’ or ‘No, no’ Matthew 5:37.  “Other scriptures on agreements and vows: Deuteronomy 23:23 Proverbs 3:32, 4:24 Ecclesiastes 5:4-5.

2. Agreements apply to those among partners, employees, customers, suppliers, and others with whom I do business.

3. The trust that exists between me and my customer or partner is based largely on my ability to deliver the products and services I promise. The principle of keeping vows is applicable here and vital to my testimony.

I would love to hear your thoughts and comments.