Caring for People: An Essential Trait of the Marketplace Ambassador
In the business world, success is often measured by numbers—sales, profits, growth, and bottom lines. But as Christian business men, our role goes beyond economic metrics. Representing Jesus in the marketplace calls us to embody His heart, especially in how we care for people. Whether it’s employees, co-workers, vendors, customers, or even competitors, everyone we encounter is navigating the complexities of life, work, and personal challenges. And our response to these challenges is a profound part of our ambassadorship.
Scripture calls us to consider the needs of others, as seen in Philippians 2:4: “Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others.” This is not an add-on to our work; it’s central to who we are as Christ’s representatives in business. Our colleagues and business partners often face real struggles: financial stress, health issues, relational breakdowns, and spiritual confusion. Yet, in the fast pace of business, these struggles are easily overlooked. The busyness, the fear of potential conflict, and the risk of damaging professional relationships make it tempting to sidestep personal issues. But we are called to enter into this “messiness,” seeing it as an opportunity to provide genuine soul care.
The opportunity to care is often revealed through presenting problems: a frustrated employee, a difficult customer, or a vendor struggling to meet deadlines. These surface-level issues often open a doorway to deeper needs. When we stop to listen—really listen—we may be able to care for more than just the immediate issue. Listening is perhaps the most powerful act of care we can offer, and it requires us to be fully present and available.
This kind of care is not passive. It’s active and intentional, grounded in the love and humility Jesus modeled. Jesus told us to love one another as He has loved us (John 13:34), which often means setting aside our own interests, ambitions, and convenience. Caring for others demands a choice to prioritize their needs above our own, as Philippians 2:4 reminds us. It’s a sacrificial approach that stands in stark contrast to a world that values productivity and efficiency above all else. We must remember God calls us to faithfulness not effectiveness.
Care in the marketplace can take many forms:
1. Listening and Empathy: Sometimes, a listening ear is all that’s needed. Truly hearing someone creates a space where they feel valued and safe to open up. James 1:19 encourages us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” When was the last time you stopped to listen deeply rather than moving on the that ever present next?
2. Practical Assistance: Offering practical help when someone is facing hardship speaks volumes. Whether it’s flexible time, additional support, or a simple word of encouragement, our actions show that we see people as more than just business resources. Galatians 6:2 calls us to “bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” When was the last time you stopped to help with your time, talents and treasure in your marketplace endevours?
3. Spiritual Care: We can offer to pray for someone or share the hope we have in Christ, especially when deeper spiritual issues are revealed. This may mean stepping out of our comfort zone, but the rewards can be eternal. First Peter 3:15 reminds us to be prepared to give an answer for the hope that is in us, with gentleness and respect. When was the last time you stopped and prayed in your work environment for someone in need of something greater than you have to offer?
Through these acts, we live out our role as marketplace ambassadors, representing Jesus in a tangible way. Business is demanding, yet when we intentionally prioritize people, we reflect the very heart of God. In this broken and often challenging world, care is a gift we’re uniquely positioned to offer. As we lean into these opportunities, we make a lasting impact, one that goes beyond profit and loss to the soul-level needs that truly matter.
In the end, people may forget a transaction, a deal, or even a disagreement, but they won’t forget the care we extend. That’s the legacy of a marketplace ambassador—using business as a platform not just for profit, but for the real work of soul care.