By Dave Shoemaker

There was a popular TV show called What's My Line that ran in the '50s, '60s and '70s in which celebrities tried to guess the occupation, or line, of the guest by asking questions that could only be answered with a yes or no.

No one may be trying to guess your occupation or position. But, your actions and words—or lack thereof—tell others where you stand on matters of far greater importance. Would your employees, customers and peers label you a Christian in the marketplace? Or, do they see someone who professes to be a Christian, but leaves all that religion stuff behind when the calendar indicates a new workweek has begun?

During recessions and times of trial people flock to movies, bars, and churches. They’re looking for comfort and answers. That’s where you come in as a Christian business leader living your faith in the marketplace. Employees can gain a sense of God "with skin on" when served by genuine Christian CEOs, management and co-workers. Our opportunity to continually remind folks of the reality of God’s truth and love for them is even greater when things seem out of control.

Some might balk at that and think, "That’s not my job," or, "It’s none of my business." Leadership is a God-given gift (Rom.12:6-8) and one that comes with far-reaching responsibilities that do not stop when people leave from the workplace.

Have you ever wondered why God leaves us here after we're saved? Do you really think it is to enjoy the limited pleasure of this life when our lives in heaven will be infinitely better? We remain here to serve Him, allowing Him to live though us (Gal. 2:20). We are to participate (not just financially contribute) in His work. Our participation in His work is intended to take place right where we are. It’s no accident that the twists and turns of your career path have you right where God wants to use you, "for such a time as this." (Esther 4:14b)

God wants us to see that our employees have been brought to us for a greater purpose and take seriously our responsibility to equip them to see a "new" reality. We have purposely been put in a position to serve them by introducing real—if foreign—core principles we hold to be true. Biblical notions such as objective truth, submission to authority, working with excellence, reaping what you sow, and self-control, become real for the first time for many once they enter the workforce. They learn there are real consequences for their actions and that trust and integrity, coupled with reliable performance and lifelong learning, are vital to career progress. In the process, we pray they will more deeply consider Christ, the author of such principles.

As stewards of God’s businesses, we’ll give an account of what we did with the relationships we’ve been given. We must bring "all" of ourselves to work each day—including our Biblical worldview. Paul said that we’re “Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us.” (II Cor. 5:20, NIV) For those who fear speaking their heart, God promises us, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)

So, what’s your line? More importantly, what does your walk say about you? In the longest running prime time TV game show, ten "no" answers meant the contestant had won. In our world, one "no" because of our walk can be a life lost—potentially for eternity. But, one person, seeing a boss or co-worker who responds to situations in a way contrary to the world, can find hope and raise the question of 1 Peter 3:15b: "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect."

If we try to live according to the principles of repenting and seeking reconciliation when we fail, we will be salt and light (Matt. 5:16) to this hurting generation and enjoy many opportunities to share our hope in Christ. Our line will be that of His children—obedient to His calling—in all of our life roles. Then we will, as Paul exhorted Timothy, “take hold of the life that is truly life.” (I Timothy 6:19)

Dave Shoemaker spent more than 3 decades in the software industry, leading companies in the US, Canada and the UK. Prior to 1997, when he received Christ, Dave gauged his success in worldly terms as he admittedly pursued "the best life had to offer." God used Dave’s life experiences (the good and the other), his fascination with business leadership motivation, and his passion for Men’s Ministries to lead him to the C12 Group. C12 is the leading resource for Christian business owners where they help each other build thriving companies, sharpen their skills and lead more balanced lives. Dave introduced C12 to the Delaware valley in the fall of 2008. He can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 973.615.4120.