Working Together for God's Glory: Lessons from a Small Business Owner's Journey

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.  Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 (NIV)

A small business owner in a suburb of Cape Town started her business with one goal; To serve her clients so they would experience the love of Christ from the moment they entered her spa until they left. She was sure that by providing top-notch services and using one of the best products available in the market, word of mouth would spread, and more people would flock to the spa. After all, God promises to supply all our needs.

She witnessed numerous satisfied customers who adored the experience provided by her high-end spa, and who cherished the spiritual guidance they received during their visit. During the treatments, her clients would often experience a release in their conditions. The business owner did however feel that it was wrong to chare her clients for problems that were solved not because of her treatments but because of the Word of God. Thus her business started struggling financially. Her last action was to pray and ask God to send help.

His answer came in a way that she did not expect.

The very next week, another lady came to visit her. She had to move her already established business to new premises. Immediately, the owner invited her to come to her. They now started combining their skills and passion for serving their clients to the glory of God. They were accountable to each other and worked together to achieve their goals. Although they still face many challenges, they support each other by praying and standing together. Whenever one feels like giving up, the other provides the needed strength to continue.

Challenge

Ask yourself if you are doing anything alone that could be shared with someone else. Who can you collaborate with?

Pray

God, please help me to put aside my pride and ask for assistance when needed. Open my eyes so I can recognise the people you want me to collaborate with.