SPEAKER TOUTS BIBLE FOR BUSINESS

Christian businessmen have a handbook for success, although they may not realize it.

The Bible, said Don DeLozier, outlines the way to manage business God's way.

"A spiritual awakening is taking place across the nation, particularly with men," DeLozier said. "And I'm seeing it in business."

He is teaching a two-day seminar, "Business by The Book," sponsored by the Christian Business Men's Committee of Cape Girardeau. The seminar ends today.

Thirty-nine business owners and department managers are attending, including several husband-wife teams.

"A Christian is a Christian 24 hours a day, seven days a week," said DeLozier. "If God gives a Christian a business, that is his place of ministry."

DeLozier said God has biblical principles for hiring, firing, paying, borrowing, collecting, tithing and planning.

"Generating a profit is OK; in fact it's crucial," he said. "The problem is when we make it our purpose rather than a function."

Following the Bible's principles pays off, he said. Businesses thrive and employees are happier.

"You and I are rich," DeLozier said. "Why did God bless us? God blessed Abraham in order that he might bless others."

DeLozier said money, time and talents can all be used to glorify God.

He told of one business owner who decided to train an unemployed man. He paid the man $6 an hour, sent a foreman to roust him from bed when he was late, and eventually trained him to become a welder. The man went on to get a job making $7 an hour.

"Just think what would happen if every Christian businessman took on one person," he said.

Jack Mehner of the local Christian Business Men's Committee said another session will be scheduled if enough people are interested.