Honesty in business is talked about in many businesses and at all levels of business, from
mom-and-pop neighborhood store to large corporations. It sounds good: "We conduct an honest and ethical business." It's a great PR statement and one that we hear constantly from all types of businesses. What many of them are really saying is that we should do business with them because they are honest and we can trust what they are telling us in their sales materials and advertising. All too often, this statement of honesty is merely part of business' marketing strategy used in an attempt to create credibility with largest number of potential customers.
At root of problem is fact that civil and legislative authorities, which govern conduct of business in our society, establish codes, regulations and laws. These rules of law are based on practical economic and legal ethical standards and have nothing to do with application of Christian or moral standards. You can operate completely within law and still cheat, mislead and otherwise perform dishonest acts.
But what does this really mean? For example a Christian views honesty and ethical behavior as a foundation of Christian life. In other words, Christians try to live example through observing and applying God's Commandments. This means complete truth in all things. It also incorporates idea of treating others as you want them to treat you.
For Christian business people, these truths are not just some nice sounding words, but are to be lived out in our daily behavior and actions. Do all Christians set this example in their business life? Sadly, many do not. They become lost in lure of achieving success in their business while losing sight of true meaning of honesty in business dealings. Honesty is more than something we talk about on Sunday when we are in church but is a reality that must be lived out in our daily life regardless of where we are.
Most have good intentions; they do not set out to cheat or lie in order to gain an economic advantage. As long as they stay within bounds of legal limits, many feel they are being honest. It is okay to exaggerate or mislead if you do not actually lie. It is ok to hide consumer information in fine print that no one reads.
But this is standard set by world and our society. Honesty in business dealings means exactly that. When a person reads sales materials, expectation should be that claims are truthful, not exaggerated and that business will provide promised product or service just as described. A Christian businessperson aspires to higher standards. He knows that he has a responsibility to his customers to treat them fairly and as he himself would expect to be treated. Anything less is dishonesty by Christ's standards.
