Thinking of Starting a Business? 7 Biblical Principles to Consider Before Quitting Your Job

This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For more information, please check out our disclaimer.

With so many changes happening in the world and the economy, becoming a business owner may seem more appealing now than ever. Not having to worry about layoffs, downsizing, or budget cuts that could impact your position sounds like freedom. On the other hand, there’s a sense of security in working for someone. You know when your paycheck is coming, you have benefits, and there’s consistency in your finances.

Regardless of your motivation, we all have responsibilities. Quitting your job to start a business requires a solid game plan. Without proper preparation, it can be risky, but with thoughtful planning, you can set yourself up for a smoother transition and a greater chance of success.

In this post, we’ll explore 7 Biblical principles to consider before leaving your job to pursue business ownership, rooted in faith and wisdom.

1. Were You Called to Be a Business Owner?

Not everyone is called to be a business owner. God has blessed each of us with different gifts and talents. Romans 12:6-8 (NIV) reminds us that:

“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.”

Take some time to reflect on why you want to start or own a business. Are you trying to escape your 9-5? Are you feeling pressured to take over a family business? Maybe you want more flexibility to spend time with your children. Whatever your reasons, it’s important to seek God first.

Ask God if this is the path He wants for you. Pray for clarity about your gifts and how He wants you to use them. If you’re unsure about your spiritual gifts, check out this post on discovering your gifts to help you gain deeper insight. Trust that He will guide you to the right decision and help you become a light in the business world.

2. Know What You’re Getting Yourself Into

Starting a business is exciting, but it’s also a major responsibility. It’s vital to do thorough research to understand your industry, competition, and the necessary steps for success. This is where seeking wisdom becomes foundational, as James 1:5 (NIV) reminds us:

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”

Before diving into your business venture, pray for God’s guidance and wisdom. Seek to understand the details of your business niche, trusting that He will help you make informed and thoughtful decisions. Aligning your plans with God’s wisdom will equip you to navigate challenges, avoid unnecessary mistakes, and ensure your business practices are ethical and aligned with your values.

3. Are You Prepared for What’s to Come?

Quitting your job without a financial safety net can be a gamble. In Genesis 41:28-36 (NIV), Joseph, guided by God, anticipated a coming famine and advised Pharaoh to store up grain during seven years of plenty to prepare for the seven years of famine that would follow. This story teaches us the importance of planning for the future and being prepared for what lies ahead.

While you may not need seven years’ worth of resources, the same principle applies to starting a business. Ask yourself:

• Do I have savings to cover 6-9 months of expenses?
• Can I handle my financial responsibilities if my business doesn’t generate income immediately?
• Have I saved enough to cover start-up costs, such as equipment, marketing, or legal fees?

While we pray for success, it’s wise to plan for all possibilities. Save up as much as you can before quitting your job so you’re financially secure during the transition.

To help you prepare for this step, try using a financial budgeting journal or a budgeting app to track your expenses and savings.

4. Don’t Be Fooled by the Glitz and Glam of Starting a Business

The flexibility of being able to set your own hours and be your own boss may be appealing, but remember that being a business owner requires discipline, hard work, and consistency. While you can enjoy the freedom of making your own schedule, it also means taking responsibility for every aspect of your business. Proverbs 14:23 (NIV) says:

“All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.”

Before quitting your job, dedicate 1-2 hours daily to building your business while still employed. Use this time to focus on essential tasks like planning, learning about your industry, and working on small projects. 

This will help you establish a consistent routine and develop the commitment and effort needed to manage the demands of running a full-time business once you take that leap. By building this habit, you’ll be better prepared to take on the larger responsibilities that come with being a full-time business owner.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of your idea, but success requires action. Don’t just talk about your business—work on it diligently.

5. Vet the People You Collaborate With

In business, partnerships and collaborations are common. However, it’s essential to use discernment. Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT) highlights the qualities we should display and can look for in others:

“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!”

Before partnering with anyone, observe their character and how they embody these virtues. If someone lacks integrity or shows a lack of these qualities in their personal life, it’s likely they’ll bring the same behaviors to your business dealings. 

The way someone conducts themselves in everyday situations can often give you a sense of how they’ll handle business matters. It’s important to build partnerships with individuals who demonstrate the Fruit of the Spirit, as these qualities are foundational to establishing a trustworthy business relationship.

In addition to vetting potential partners, consider seeking guidance from trusted mentors who can offer valuable insights and help you discern whether a partnership aligns with your values and goals. Proverbs 15:22 (NIV) reminds us:

“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.”

A mentor who possesses the Fruit of the Spirit can offer wisdom from both personal and professional experiences, guiding you toward wise decisions and helping you navigate potential challenges.

6. Don’t Talk Too Much in the Beginning

While the journey of starting a business is full of excitement, it’s important to move with wisdom and discretion. Ecclesiastes 3:7 (NIV) reminds us that there is:

“A time to be silent and a time to speak.”

Share your plans only with trusted individuals who support your vision. Prematurely announcing your intentions can invite unnecessary criticism or sabotage.

Also, avoid telling your employer about your plans to part ways until you’ve built a solid foundation for your business. Timing is everything—pray for wisdom about when to speak and when to stay silent.

7. Ensure Your Priorities Are Straight

Starting a business can consume a lot of time and energy. While sacrifices are part of creating a business, it’s crucial not to lose sight of the people and things that truly matter. Make a conscious effort to check in with your loved ones and ensure you’re nurturing those relationships, even as you’re building your business.

Be proactive in communicating with your family about your new schedule. Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time, and plan intentional moments for relaxation, self-care, and quality time with those closest to you. By prioritizing balance, you’ll be better equipped to avoid burnout and maintain the support system that helps keep you grounded.

Remember, success in business is meaningless if it comes at the expense of your family, health, or personal well-being. True success is when you’re thriving personally and professionally, with fulfillment in both.

Staying Grounded in Faith Through Your Business Journey

Whether you decide to start a business or stay at your current job, remember to keep God at the center of your decisions. Colossians 3:23 (NIV) reminds us that: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” This verse encourages us to approach our work with purpose and dedication, always seeking to honor God in all that we do.

Additionally, Romans 12:2 (NIV) teaches us to maintain our integrity: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This reminds us to stay true to God’s principles and not to follow worldly patterns of success. Let God’s wisdom guide your business decisions.

Finally, Psalm 112:5 (NIV) encourages us, saying: “Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice.” In business, honesty and generosity are key to building a strong foundation, and this verse assures us that those who conduct their affairs justly will be blessed.

I pray this blog post has brought you clarity and wisdom as you consider starting a business. May God guide your steps, bless your plans, and give you the courage to walk boldly in your calling. Be patient with yourself and your journey, trusting in His perfect timing and knowing that He is working all things together for your good when you align your purpose with His.