Most people attend college to gain the knowledge required to earn the money that will enable them to live the lifestyle that they want. Hence after college, learning is not a high priority for most. It is generally done only when necessary. Is this wise? Should we stop learning?
In his teaching on the book of Proverbs, theologian Dr. Bruce Waltke defined knowledge as “the understanding of how God’s universe works” and wisdom as “the skill to use knowledge to live well in God’s universe.”
Therefore, for any organization to function well in God’s universe requires knowledge and wisdom. This means that a key role of management is to seek to understand how God’s universe works, particularly relative to the value proposition offered by the organization.
In the above text, the apostle Peter taught that the knowledge of God is the foundation for everything in life, which includes managing organizations. This means that the foundation of all knowledge and wisdom is sound theology.
Knowledge has both a cognitive and relational component. The cognitive component is obvious. But the relational component is more subtle.
In the KJV translation of Genesis 4:1, we read that Adam knew his wife and she conceived. The word know in this text clearly implies sexual or relational intimacy. Hence biblically, the concept of knowledge includes a relational aspect.
Applying both the cognitive and relational aspects of knowledge to managing organizations implies that growing in relationship to God is essential because knowing God is the key to all of life. The result of knowing God is to know His will and His ways—including His will and ways for the workplace.
Here is your business tip: Build a culture based on learning and growing in the Lord. Invest in training starting with your management team. Management must model the importance of learning. Training should include both the biblical principles relevant to the organization’s success and personal intimacy with the Lord. Maturity in Christ and living according to a biblical worldview are keys to allowing organizations to deliver world-class value propositions. |
