Brian sat at his desk, staring at his financial spreadsheet, feeling the weight of his financial situation pressing down on him. His small contracting business had been struggling, and to make matters worse, some of his recent deals hadn’t been fair to his workers. He had cut corners to keep the company afloat, but deep down, he knew it wasn’t right. The financial strain was bad, but the moral burden was starting to wear on him even more.
Frustrated and unsure of what to do, Brian decided to meet with his mentor, Paul, who had always offered wise counsel in difficult times. Over coffee, Brian explained his dilemma—how he had shortchanged some of his employees and taken questionable shortcuts to make ends meet.
Paul listened patiently, then looked at Brian with understanding eyes. “It sounds like what you need to focus on right now is the virtue of justice.”
Brian frowned. “Justice? I am trying to survive, but I’m not doing anything illegal…”
“Justice isn’t just about legal matters; it’s about doing what is right and fair, even when it’s hard,” Paul explained. “Start with fairness. Your workers deserve fair wages and treatment for the work they do. If you continue to cut corners at their expense, the long-term cost to your reputation and business will be much greater than the short-term savings.”
Brian sighed, knowing Paul was right. “I’ve been avoiding it because I’m scared of what it will mean for the business.”
Paul nodded. “That’s where integrity comes in. Acting with integrity means doing the right thing, even when no one’s watching and even when it’s difficult. If you want your business to succeed, it has to be built on trust, and that starts with being honest in your dealings.”
Brian shifted in his seat, realising the depth of his mistake. “I guess I haven’t been very transparent either.”
“Exactly,” Paul agreed. “Transparency is key to justice. Be open with your workers about the challenges the business is facing. You’ll be surprised how much goodwill you can build by being honest. When people feel treated fairly and openly, they’re likelier to stick with you through tough times.”
“And I need to hold myself accountable, don’t I?” Brian asked.
“Yes,” Paul said. “Accountability means owning up to your mistakes and making things right. This ties into equity—ensuring everyone is treated fairly according to their contributions and needs.”
Brian left the meeting feeling both convicted and hopeful. He knew the path ahead wouldn’t be easy. Still, with a renewed commitment to fairness, integrity, transparency, accountability, and equity, he was ready to embrace justice and rebuild his business on a stronger, more ethical foundation.
Building Financial Strength Through the Virtue of Justice
Virtues are often underestimated in the pursuit of financial strength. Justice isn't just about legal systems; it's about building a financially strong, balanced life where values align with actions.
In the Bible, the virtue of justice is foundational, rooted in the character of God and reflected in His people. By incorporating justice into our financial decisions, we foster ethical relationships and align our resources with our faith, cultivating lasting financial strength. Here’s how the strengths within justice can guide us financially, illuminated by Bible verses that bring these principles to life.
Fairness: Mutually Healthy Financial Relationships
The Bible urges us to treat others fairly, particularly in financial relationships. Fairness is essential in budgeting, lending, or sharing resources with needy people. "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you," (Matthew 7:12, NIV) sets a clear standard for fairness. Fairness ensures we consider others in our decisions, promoting mutual respect and balanced relationships.
Fairness builds a workplace culture where everyone is compensated and rewarded equitably for their work, fostering morale and employee retention. Fairness in financial dealings reduces conflicts and promotes trust, essential for lasting financial relationships.
Integrity: Aligning Financial Actions with Godly Values
Integrity is the bedrock of justice, calling us to align actions with our values. Financial integrity means being honest in financial dealings and keeping commitments.
Proverbs 10:9 says, “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.” Financial integrity means keeping commitments and helps us avoid shortcuts or fraudulent behaviours, which may bring temporary gain but lead to long-term loss. Maintaining integrity also involves adhering to ethical financial practices and avoiding fraudulent actions.
When we act with integrity, our finances reflect our commitment to truth and faith, establishing a reputation of trustworthiness that enhances personal and communal prosperity.
Transparency: Fostering Trust Through Openness
Transparency builds trust by ensuring that our financial dealings are clear and understandable.
Transparency in financial dealings builds trust and reduces the risk of misunderstandings, making it a cornerstone of the virtue of justice.
This principle is echoed in Ephesians 4:25: “Therefore, each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbour, for we are all members of one body.” Transparency in finances involves openly sharing relevant financial information with those affected by it. In organisations, transparency fosters loyalty among employees and stakeholders, as trust is built on clear and honest communication. Financial misunderstandings are reduced when transparency prevails and a solid foundation of mutual understanding and collaboration is created.
Accountability: Embracing Responsibility in Financial Decisions
Accountability is a critical strength within justice that builds financial resilience by holding individuals responsible for their financial choices.
The Bible teaches us to be accountable in all our actions, including finances. “So then each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.” (Romans 14:12)
Accountability is equally vital in the workplace. Leaders who demonstrate accountability in managing resources inspire trust and create a culture of reliability. Practising accountability helps avoid careless decisions, promoting thoughtful, intentional actions that contribute to financial stability.
Equity: Ensuring Fair Access to Financial Resources
Equity, another strength within justice, focuses on promoting fair access to financial resources and opportunities. Financial equity recognises that not everyone begins on equal footing and that additional support or adjustment is sometimes necessary to level the playing field.
Equity is rooted in biblical justice, promoting fair access to opportunities and resources. Proverbs 31:9 encourages us to “speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” Equity in personal finance may involve supporting family members in financial need or contributing to causes that promote financial wellness for the less privileged. Equitable workplace practices such as fair salaries and opportunities strengthen morale and foster loyalty. By promoting equity, we live out our faith through financial stewardship, building a more equitable financial landscape and aligning with God’s heart for justice.
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Download a short discussion paper about how justice can help you build financial strength.
Virtues and Financial Strength
Virtues provide the foundation for wise, ethical, and sustainable financial decisions. While financial strength is often measured in terms of wealth or assets, true financial strength, from a Christian perspective, goes beyond numbers. It’s about handling resources in a way that honours God and reflects our moral and spiritual values. By cultivating virtues, we develop the character necessary to manage finances responsibly, avoid destructive behaviours, and contribute to the flourishing of ourselves and others.
Justice is one of the 7 virtues that contribute to building financial strength.
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