Photo by Valentin Salja on Unsplash

Decisions are influenced by many factors that arise in a variety of circumstances. So, it’s not surprising if at times, the question is asked, “Now, why did I decide that way?” How much of that decision was an emotional reaction versus a well thought through response?

At the core of every decision or action is a deeply held set of values that consciously or unconsciously come into play. Values are about what you consider important to the life you want to live and the business you lead.

Those values have been formed and shaped by the influences of upbringing, family & friends, community, business, media, culture and hopefully through faith commitments.

When it comes to values, three challenges are faced:



God’s Word addresses the matter of values from many perspectives and can certainly help to answer these questions. No matter what our responses are, Paul states our greatest aspiration when he wrote:

“...Brothers and sisters, we instructed you how to live
in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you
in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more.” – I Thessalonians 4:1

1. Values Identified
Values are rooted in our core beliefs about what makes a life well-lived and about the behaviour we want to model for others. So, what do you value in life and business?

So much of life is lived on “auto-pilot” that we seldom reflect on what motivates us and guides our behaviour. However, the reality of what Jeremiah experienced is undoubtedly ours, as well:

The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure.
Who can understand it? – Jeremiah 17:9

So, it only makes sense to periodically take time to identify and write a list of what you value as important in your life. Then, in quietness, ask God to reveal what’s deep within your heart. This allows Him the opportunity to reveal both the good and the bad.

Our goal is to nurture and grow His values while working to eliminate the displeasing values which can thwart our desire to live a life that David spoke of:

“LORD, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from their heart.” – Psalm 15:1,2

What are the values that are you committed to
both in your personal and business life?

2. Values Prioritized
Values inform our priorities and, when practiced consistently, form the character you want to have. In life and business, all values are important, but some hold precedence over others. So, with your values identified, take the opportunity to prioritize them in order of most important to the least.

A great place to start is with the challenge that Luke provides:

“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and
with all your strength and with all your mind’; and,
‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” – Luke 10:27

This list of value priorities can serve as a value grid through which you make your decisions. Sharing your top 2-3 values with your family and business colleagues will help to build a sense of respect for your leadership.

What is your most important value in life and
how do you demonstrate that to those around you?

3. Values Evaluated
It’s been said, “What’s down in the well comes up in the bucket!” This also holds true when it comes to values. That which we hold as of highest value deep within will be lived out in our words and our behaviour whether we’re aware of it or not. So again, Christ’s words come to mind:

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. – Matthew 6:21

Therefore, it’s wise to evaluate how well you are living out those values periodically with your values identified and prioritized. Look for consistency between your words and actions and your values.

For instance, to what degree do follow Micah’s declaration of God’s values?

What does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy and to
walk humbly with your God. – Micah 6:8

Sometimes, what we’re not aware of, is just as or more important than what we’re aware of. So, it may be helpful to gather feedback from those around you in the workplace or at home. Sharing your values with others and asking for their feedback can be a good means of accountability.

To what degree is what you think and say in alignment
with the values you hold of greatest importance?

Your life is like an open book to your colleagues, family, and friends. How is your book of life being read?

Take time to identify your values. Prioritize your values. Then evaluate your values to ensure that you receive His “well done!” when you stand before Him one day.

“I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.”– Jeremiah 17:10

Don Moore
Executive Director Canadian Christian Business Federation
Don strongly believes that people are our nation’s most valuable asset. His Listen-Learn-Lead” approach to leadership has made him highly effective in executive roles in a variety of organizations with local, regional, national, and international reach.

An entrepreneurial thinker and strategist, Don built a grassroots movement of denominational and ministry leaders committed to evangelism with The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada (EFC) and led a National Consultation in Ottawa.