Let’s talk about something that makes a lot of Christian entrepreneurs uncomfortable—money. Specifically, profit. Is it okay to profit as a Christian business owner? Shouldn’t we just give freely because we love Jesus? And why does it feel like people expect discounts or freebies just because they know you go to church?
The truth? Yes, you should profit in business. And no, that’s not unbiblical. In fact, running a profitable business is how you provide for yourself, your family, and how you can bless others beyond yourself. But let’s be real—the hard part is walking the fine line between generosity and sustainability, especially when other Christians start questioning why you’re charging them at all.
Why Profit is NOT a Dirty Word
There’s a common misconception that making money automatically means you’re greedy or “unspiritual.” But here’s the reality: Profit is necessary.
- Profit keeps a roof over your head.
- Profit puts food on the table.
- Profit allows you to reinvest in your business.
- Profit lets you support your church, charities, and people in need.
God calls us to be wise stewards of our resources. Proverbs 21:5 says, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” If you’re not profiting, your business won’t survive. And if your business doesn’t survive, how can you serve people in the long run?
But let’s get into the awkward part of this conversation.
“You’re a Christian—Why Would You Charge Me?”
This one hits close to home. If you’ve ever had someone from church, a family member, or even a friend approach you for your services and then look shocked when you send them your price, you know exactly what I’m talking about.
It usually sounds like this:
🗣 “Oh wow… I didn’t think you’d charge that much.”
🗣 “But we go to the same church…”
🗣 “I thought you’d hook me up since we’re both Christians.”
Look, we love community. We love blessing others when God calls us to. But your business is not a charity, it’s a business. And just because you share the same faith with someone doesn’t mean you’re obligated to give them a discount or work for free.
- Does your landlord let you live rent-free because you’re a Christian? No.
- Does the grocery store give you free food because you believe in Jesus? No.
- Does the electric company cut your bill in half because you go to church? No.
So why should your business be treated any differently?
It’s tough, but part of being a Christian entrepreneur is learning to set healthy boundaries and understanding that your work is valuable. Yes, there may be moments when God calls you to discount your services or even do something for free—but that’s between you and Him. It should never be an expectation from others.
The Hard Truth About Keeping Up With the Market
Another tough pill to swallow? We live in a world where inflation and market trends exist.
It’s not about greed—it’s about reality. If your competitors are charging fair market value for their services, and you’re undercharging just to appease people who think you shouldn’t profit, you’re setting yourself up for failure.
Yes, we are called to be in the world, but not of it (John 17:14-16), but that doesn’t mean we ignore the economics of running a business. Jesus Himself used parables about business, investments, and stewardship because money matters.
If we refuse to charge what we’re worth, we’re actually limiting our ability to serve. Think about it:
- If your business isn’t profitable, how will you sustain it?
- If you can’t sustain it, how will you continue serving people?
- If you can’t continue serving people, what’s the point of running the business?
Being a Christian in business doesn’t mean ignoring economic wisdom. It means running your business in a way that’s sustainable so that you can continue serving others long-term.
The Problem with the Prosperity Gospel
Now, let’s shift gears a bit. Because while we’re talking about money and faith, we need to address something else—the prosperity gospel.
The prosperity gospel teaches that if you follow Jesus, you’ll be rich, healthy, and successful. It’s the idea that God wants you to have wealth as a sign of favor. And while yes, God blesses His people, this teaching distorts what the Bible actually says.
Jesus never promised us wealth. In fact, He warned us about the dangers of chasing riches:
- “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth…” (Matthew 6:19)
- “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” (Mark 10:25)
- “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” (1 Timothy 6:10)
The problem with the prosperity gospel is that it turns God into a vending machine. It tells people that if they just give enough, pray enough, or serve enough, God will make them rich. But that’s not how faith works.
Instead of focusing on accumulating wealth, we should focus on trusting God, working diligently, and using our resources wisely to help others. Wealth itself is not evil, but it becomes a problem when it replaces God as our priority.
Final Thoughts: Profit With Purpose
So, should you profit in your business? Yes. Should you feel guilty for charging fair prices? No. Should you blindly chase wealth as a sign of God’s favor? Absolutely not.
Profit allows you to provide, grow, and give. But money should never be the main goal—God should be.
Run your business with wisdom. Charge what you’re worth. Set boundaries. Be generous when God calls you to be. And most importantly, keep your heart aligned with Him.
Because in the end? Our success isn’t measured in profits—it’s measured in how well we serve, love, and glorify God through our work.
💬 What’s been your biggest challenge when it comes to profit and faith? Fill out your info and leave a comment we’d love to hear from you!