Welcoming respected business leader John W. Gibson, Jr. to the show, Dr. Jeremiah Johnston asks,
“Is it possible to maintain a vibrant Christian faith and also be successful in the business world?”
Unequivocally, Gibson states that it is possible to be a leader professionally and spiritually.
“It does mean that you have to have a set of standards and values,” Gibson says.
Gibson expounds on the importance of considering consequences, duty, truth, and both short-term and long-term ramifications for each decision.
Caller Philip Nation, a pastor, asks, “How can we help people make this shift in their own lives from just consequence-based thinking to more of a faith-based, Kingdom-expanding decision-making for leaders in the community?”
Gibson replies, “Can I sleep at night? Does it violate any of my principles and my duties? You have to do what the Holy Spirit leads you to do even if the consequences for yourself are not necessarily the best.”
Johnston points to the biblical figure of Phoebe, mentioned in Romans 16:1-2. He holds her as an example of a businessperson who makes a difference in his or her sphere.
“Wherever you’re listening from, let the light of Jesus shine through you,” Johnston says. “Make a commitment to be a second Phoebe.”
Gibson encourages listeners to allow their faith to come up naturally in conversation, and to be bold at times as the Holy Spirit directs.
“We’re depending on the Holy Spirit to open up the people we’re meeting with – not us,” he says. “You have to take the risk the Holy Spirit puts before you. I’ve never done what the Holy Spirit led me to do and not seen fruit from it.”
In addition to seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit, Gibson advises people to seek wise counsel as well.
Gibson says, “Great leaders always ask for help. It’s very biblical. We look for great advisors. As a leader, you have to be prepared to make a decision when you have contrary advice. Every time I’ve asked for help and found the right helper, it’s been outstanding.”
John W. Gibson, Jr. is chairman of Energy Technology with Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Co. He has served in numbers leadership roles including president and CEO at Landmark Graphics, Paradigm Geophysical, Tervita and Halliburton. He has served as a distinguished lecturer on ethics, and recently completed a book on ethical leadership. He has served in many volunteer capacities.
