Should I soften my business policies?

on Dec 13, 2022

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I am a small business owner and my company has earned a respectable standing in the community. I’ve worked hard not to be a taskmaster, but I do expect all my employees to serve the company with honesty, integrity, and a good work ethic. In recent months, I’ve come under fire by an employee who is rebelling against my company policies by stirring up trouble in the community against my business. Some friends have encouraged me to soften my policies, but I cannot in good conscience change how I’ve always conducted my business. Am I wrong? – B.C.

A: The story is told of a young president of an East Coast company who instructed his secretary each morning not to disturb him, because he had an important appointment. One morning the chairman of the board arrived unannounced and said, “I want to see Mr. Jones.” The secretary answered, “I’m sorry, he cannot be disturbed.” The chairman became angry and banged open the door. When the chairman saw the president of the corporation on his knees in prayer, he quietly backed out of the office and softly closed the door. He asked the secretary, “Is that usual?” She responded, “Yes sir, every morning.” The chairman replied, “No wonder we come to him for advice.”

The Bible says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally” (James 1:5). Integrity is the glue that holds our way of life together. There may be those who react to our way of life in scorn; others may take offense at another’s unshakable faith but still they respect honesty, truthfulness, and a personal faith in Jesus Christ. A man of integrity can be trusted. “You have upheld me because of my integrity, and set me in your presence forever” (Psalm 41:12, ESV).

(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)