Scripture for Six Stages of a Start UpSample

Staying Steady: Choosing Daily Dependence

Ups and downs. Lefts and rights. Zigs and zags. To say the life of an entrepreneur is a roller coaster feels like a drastic understatement. Entrepreneurs are constantly moving back and forth between growth and stagnation, developments and backsliding, profits and losses. Frankly, it can be overwhelming.

But Paul gives us a great piece of insight on the value of steadiness—on finding contentment outside of our circumstances. Chances are you’ve heard this verse: “I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” This is a great motivational verse, right? It looks amazing on your desk or refrigerator. But have you ever stopped to ask what it means?

If we’re honest, taking this verse literally doesn’t make a ton of sense. Can I really do all things through Christ? Can I make a million dollars in profit this year if I just believe? Can I dunk this basketball if I pray hard enough? These questions miss the heart of this verse, which is why we gave you the verses before it to read. It’s not about what you can do—it’s about where you can find peace and rest.

Paul went through seasons of plenty and seasons of want—much like an entrepreneur—but he stayed steady through everything. How? He knew he could find contentment in Christ regardless of his circumstances. Instead of fighting to be independent, he chose to depend daily on Jesus. And the crazy thing? You can too.

Whether you’re in the middle of success or setbacks, whether you’re just getting started with a venture or you’re beginning to make an exit, whether you’re looking for your first hire or your fiftieth, you can find contentment in Christ. 

His character doesn’t change with your circumstances. His grace, love, and peace are always there, always available to anyone who wants them. But it takes a daily choice, a daily decision to choose dependence. We might forget this message every day, but by grace, we can choose to depend on God, not our circumstances, for satisfaction and contentment. And in Him, we can find rest.

Further Thought

• How do you deal with the regular ups and downs that come with being an entrepreneur?
• Do you find that your happiness or contentment is attached to your circumstances?
• What can you do differently to rely on God for contentment, rather than your own strength or circumstances?

If you enjoyed this reading plan, explore other resources for Faith Driven Entrepreneurs.