“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” Martin Luther King Jr.
The story of the widow in 2 Kings 4:1-7 provides profound insights into Christian entrepreneurship. This biblical account of a woman facing financial crisis teaches timeless principles about faith, resourcefulness, and divine provision—key lessons for anyone navigating the world of business with a Christian worldview.
The Widow’s Plight: A Call to Action
The widow, burdened by debt and facing the loss of her sons to slavery, approached the prophet Elisha for help. Elisha’s response was simple yet profound:
“Tell me, what do you have in your house?” (2 Kings 4:2, NIV)
This question highlights a fundamental principle of Christian entrepreneurship: start with what you have. Often, God’s provision is already within our reach, waiting to be recognized and utilized. The widow’s only asset was a small jar of oil, but in God’s hands, it became the foundation for a miracle.
Obedience and Action
Elisha instructed the widow to borrow empty jars from her neighbours and pour her oil into them. She obeyed, and as she poured, the oil miraculously multiplied until every jar was filled. This act of faith underscores another entrepreneurial lesson: trust God and take action.
Right here is where she entered into a partnership with God. As Jesus said to Martha, “Did I not tell you and promise you that if you would believe and rely on Me, you would see the glory of God?” (John 11:40)
This is also reflected in what Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” Entrepreneurs live by this principle as they launch into the unknown with a vision and trust in their purpose.
The Bible also says, “Faith without works is dead” (James 2:17). The widow’s faith was demonstrated in her willingness to follow Elisha’s unconventional instructions, and her action opened the door for God’s blessing.
Selling the Oil: A Model for Christian Business
Elisha’s final instruction was,
“Go, sell the oil and pay your debts. You and your sons can live on what is left.” (2 Kings 4:7, NIV)
Here, we see the introduction of commerce as a means of provision. The widow not only received enough to pay her debts but also had surplus oil to sustain her family. This illustrates the principle of ethical profit—using business as a tool to meet needs and bless others.
Biblical Principles for Christian Entrepreneurship
The widow’s story demonstrates God’s view on entrepreneurship: a combination of faith, stewardship, and service. Here are additional biblical principles that align with this narrative:
- Diligence and Hard Work
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” (Colossians 3:23, NIV)
Entrepreneurs are called to approach their work with excellence and dedication, recognizing that their efforts glorify God.
- Stewardship of Resources
The parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) emphasizes the importance of wisely managing what God entrusts to us. Like the widow’s oil, even small resources can yield great results when faithfully stewarded. - Serving Others
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others.” (1 Peter 4:10, NIV)
Christian entrepreneurship isn’t just about personal gain; it’s about meeting the needs of others and contributing to the community.
Perspectives on Faith and Business
Os Hillman, a Christian author on workplace ministry, states,
“Your work is your ministry. When you view your business as a calling, it transforms mundane tasks into acts of worship.”
Similarly, theologian Timothy Keller emphasizes in his book Every Good Endeavor that,
“Work done in faith, hope, and love has intrinsic value and echoes God’s creative activity.”
Conclusion: God’s Blueprint for Business
The story of the widow teaches that entrepreneurship, when guided by faith and aligned with God’s principles, can be a powerful means of provision and ministry. It’s a reminder that no resource is too small for God to use, and no situation is beyond His redemption. As Christians in business, we are called to trust Him, act boldly, and serve others with integrity and generosity.
