Unequally Yoked
A guiding principle for life and business, especially when forming partnerships, comes 2 Corinthians 6:14 “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers.”
While this verse is often applied to marriage, it can also be relevant in business relationships. Just as a couple must be aligned in their direction to move forward, business partners must share similar values to effectively work together. If one partner is going in a different direction, it can cause tension and hinder progress.
This doesn’t mean we avoid working with non-Christians altogether. However, when it comes to partnerships, we believe it’s important to team up with others who share a commitment to honoring God.
For example, our portfolio managers, who are our most integrated partners, are strong Christians. During our first conversation, faith and stewardship were focus points of discussion as much as portfolios and procedures. This helps us align both financially and spiritually in serving our clients.
Yes, we sometimes work with companies whose leadership might not be explicitly Christians for specific products or specialized services, just like I shop at Wal Mart sometimes because it may be the only place in town that has what I need, even if I don’t agree with their company values.
The key is in word yoked, which is like a partnership, both have to be going in the same direction. Those who we partner with—especially in areas that are central to our mission—share the same Christian values. This is important for maintaining consistency in how we approach financial stewardship and serving our clients.
If faith is important to you, it should be reflected in the professionals you work with.
For example, when managing finances or making decisions about giving, it’s essential to partner with someone who understands and respects your desire to honor God with your resources. Otherwise, you might encounter advice that doesn’t align with your values, such as suggesting you reduce charitable giving for financial gain.
King Solomon puts it this way, “Walk with the wise and become wise” (Proverbs 13:20). It’s crucial to surround ourselves with people who share our commitment to Christ, particularly when making important life decisions.
Proverbs also emphasizes the importance of good counsel, and I believe that having Christian advisors ensures we can rely on counsel that aligns with our faith.
In our business, we strive to work with other Christians who are committed to honoring God in their work. This approach fosters mutual encouragement and accountability, helping us serve our clients with integrity and a prayerful attitude.
While not every client I work with is a Christian, it’s awesome when connect with fellow believers as we put together their plan, it strengthens our shared mission.
When it comes to planning for your financial future, I encourage you to partner with professionals who share your faith. Let’s work together, prayerfully and purposefully, to ensure that your financial plan honors God. As the scripture advises, don’t be unequally yoked, partner with those who share your commitment to faith, and together, we can move forward with confidence.
A few additional Scripture References:
Happy are those who reject the advice of evil people, who do not follow the example of sinners or join those who have no use for God. Psalm 1:1
Plans succeed through good counsel. Proverbs 20:18a
Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. Proverbs 16:3
Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” 1 Corinthians 15:33
Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. Hebrews 10:24
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” Proverbs 3:5-6