Profit

<<income, yield>>

It is just and right to make a fair profit in business dealings to be sustainable and compensate for the time, money and risk involved, besides possible costly mistakes or setbacks, as well as enabling the purchase of replacement equipment and providing for expansion. In the parable of the talents, the lazy servant was reprimanded because he did nothing to gain an increase with what had been entrusted to him (Mt 25:14-30). This parable relates to the Kingdom of Heaven and God rightfully expects us to develop the abilities we have been given. The virtuous wife was also commended for handling the affairs of life wisely, ensuring her trading was profitable (Prov 31:18).

Integrity should be the hallmark of a Christian’s whole life, including all business dealings and transactions; all things are obvious to God who hates dishonest gain or excessive taxes (Prov 11:1; Heb 4:13).

The Bible asks, “What does a person benefit if they gain the whole world but end up in hell?” (Prov 11:4; Mt 16:26). Our values must be governed by the long-range prospects rather than the short-term gratifications of the natural man, so ensure you store up real treasure in heaven (Mt 6:19-21). Jesus said, "The Spirit alone gives eternal life; the flesh

Only what will benefit us in heaven is really profitable

profits nothing" (Jn 6:63). By this He indicated human power and effort is futile to bring about our salvation. We must get our values and perspective right, understanding the flesh (human ability) is utterly incapable of generating spiritual life or accomplishing anything of eternal significance (Zech 4:6).

Godliness brings value to all things, affecting both this life and the next (Prov 14:23; 1 Tim 4:8). The Word of God is profitable or useful, providing beneficial instruction and correction, that makes us better prepared to live for Christ (2 Tim 3:16,17; Tit 3:8).

We should not just seek our own good but also that of others. Instead of considering what is in this for me, ask how can I bless others, sharing the benefits of belonging to Christ? (Rom 15:1,2; 1 Cor 10:33; Phil 2:4). Without love, whatever else we do has no value so let love be your motivation (1 Cor 13:1-3).