David Green, the founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby, recently made a decision that has inspired many in the business world and beyond. Instead of holding on to the ownership of the company he built from the ground up, Green decided to give it all up—for God. His story is a powerful example of what it means to truly live out one’s faith, especially when it comes to managing resources and the responsibilities that come with wealth. Let’s dive into the heart of Green’s decision and see what we can learn from his commitment to putting God first.
A Shift from Ownership to Responsibility
David Green’s journey with Hobby Lobby began in 1972, and over the years, the company grew into a successful, Christian-owned business. However, Green’s recent decision to relinquish ownership marks a significant shift in how he views his role—not just as a business leader, but as someone responsible for what God has entrusted to him.
Green emphasizes the difference between owning something and managing it for a greater purpose. Owning implies control, while managing with responsibility is about taking care of resources on behalf of someone else—in this case, God. By placing 100% of Hobby Lobby’s voting stock into a trust, Green has ensured that the company will continue to operate with a focus on responsibility rather than ownership. This move reflects his belief that everything ultimately belongs to God, and our role is to manage it in a way that honors Him.
Wealth as a Blessing and a Challenge
In his decision to give up ownership, Green also touches on the idea that wealth can be both a blessing and a challenge. He openly acknowledges that wealth, if not handled with care, can become a burden—a “curse,” as he puts it. This is particularly true in the context of family, where issues related to wealth can lead to conflicts and difficulties.
By transitioning from an ownership model to one of managing with responsibility, Green believes that he can better protect his family from the potential pitfalls of wealth. He also emphasizes that his children, like everyone else in the company, must earn what they receive. This approach aligns with biblical principles, reminding us that everything we have is temporary and should be used to serve God and others.
The Role of Faith and Prayer in Business
David Green’s decision is deeply rooted in his faith. He shares that his source of truth has always been prayer and the Bible. This is where he finds guidance, not only for his personal life but also for running a business. Green encourages other business leaders to do the same, suggesting that if more leaders turned to the Bible and prayer for guidance, their businesses would be transformed.
One of the key practices Green highlights is tithing, the biblical principle of giving 10% of one’s income back to God. He imagines a world where all top business leaders tithe, creating billions of dollars that could be used for good work around the world. This perspective reflects Green’s belief that when we honor God with our finances, He blesses us in ways that go beyond material wealth.
Living Out Responsibility
Green’s approach to managing resources extends beyond the business world. He encourages others to reflect on whether they see themselves as owners or caretakers of what they’ve been given. From the beginning, Green’s purpose has been to honor God in everything he does, and this commitment has guided every aspect of his life and business.
Through his efforts, Green has been able to support ministries and plant churches around the world, providing hope to countless people. His story is a powerful reminder that when we put God first and view our resources as tools for His work, we can make a lasting impact.
Applying Green’s Lessons to Our Lives
David Green’s story offers valuable lessons for us all:
- Embrace Responsibility: Like Green, we should see ourselves as caretakers rather than owners of what we have. Everything we possess is a gift from God, and it’s our responsibility to manage it in a way that honors Him.
- Prioritize Prayer and the Bible: Green’s reliance on prayer and Scripture for guidance is a reminder that we, too, should turn to God for wisdom in all areas of our lives, including our finances and decision-making.
- Practice Tithing: Green highlights the importance of tithing, a practice that not only honors God but also blesses others. By giving back a portion of what we earn, we can contribute to God’s work in the world.
- Protect Against the Pitfalls of Wealth: Wealth can be a blessing, but it can also bring challenges. Green’s story reminds us to handle our resources with care and to prioritize God’s will over material gain.
Conclusion
David Green’s decision to hand over the ownership of Hobby Lobby is a profound example of living out faith in every aspect of life. By choosing to manage his resources responsibly and put God first, Green has shown that true success comes from honoring God and using what we have for His glory. As we reflect on our own lives, let’s remember to embrace responsibility, seek God’s guidance, and prioritize His will in all that we do.
Daily Promise
Matthew 6:33 (NIV): “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
This promise encourages us to prioritize God’s will in all that we do, trusting that He will provide for our needs when we put Him first.
Daily Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the example set by David Green, who reminds us to view everything we have as a gift from You. Help me to be a responsible caretaker of the blessings You’ve given me, using them in ways that honor You. Guide me through prayer and Your Word, and keep my heart focused on serving You in all that I do.
In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
