A Christian's Strategy to survival in an economic downturn

National and world events can have a significant effect on the markets. We’re seeing that now. Gas prices, supply chain hold-ups, and war cause many issues for consumers, but they can also be very challenging for businesses.

And now, just as we’re getting on the other side of the pandemic, the economy seems to be going the wrong way. Or is it?

But even in these situations, there are always opportunities if you look for them. That attitude has really helped our company withstand pressures, and I firmly believe in it. I think the path to discovering opportunities in chaos is by following the teachings of Jesus: I start with His Word and pray and that often leads me to look for ways we can best serve.

Look for new ways to serve.

Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and [recognize and honor and] glorify your Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 5:16 AMP

It’s natural in times like these for our first response to be fear self-preservation. However, I find that when we counter-intuitively respond with wisdom and peace to those around us, we represent God’s light to a lost and dying world. This is even true in our business decisions.

Back in 2008’s recession, when companies around us were folding, God gave us a survival strategy to love and serve through innovation and broadening our scope to match the marketplace. We started by looking at who in our industry was in need and could use our help. We quickly saw banks and developers in need. We realized they were losing money on the properties they were holding, so we offered to partner with them on these projects by working at a discounted rate until the debt was paid. Instead of seeing them as our enemy, we collaborated with them, made and executed the plan, and all of us came out even stronger on the other side.

God will open and close doors, and we can trust Him. It’s our responsibility to steward our people and our witness well, even when it may not have the result we desire.

Economic downturns don't mean disaster if you follow the teachings of Jesus.

Even when the landscape looks dark, there is always an opportunity to find the light. Be flexible and humble. Recognize and admit when you need to change your approach.

When looking for new strategies, ask yourself how you can serve best in the current environment. Who else is struggling? Expand your targets of service to include vendors and competitors. Are there opportunities that I’m missing?

How are you getting through these challenging times? Have you had to rethink your short or long-term strategies to stay afloat?