Is it possible to maintain a vibrant Christian faith and also be successful in the business world?

Respected business leader John W. Gibson explains 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 shares the importance of considering consequences, duty, truth, and both short-term and long-term ramifications for each decision. It requires shifting from just consequence-based thinking to more of a faith-based, Kingdom-expanding decision-making. How can we make this shift in their own lives? John shares some questions to ask when making decisions.

“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.”

Jeremiah 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 her sphere.

“Wherever you’re listening from, let the light of Jesus shine through you. Make a commitment to be a second Phoebe.”

John encourages leaders 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.”

“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, John encourages us to seek wise counsel as well.

“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.

John W. Gibson, Jr. on faith and business integration