THE GLOBAL ECONOMY—AND THE TIMELESS BUSINESS MODEL OF JESUS

Across the world—in homes, corporations, communities, and governments alike—the lingering effects of economic uncertainty have left people searching for lasting solutions. The question that echoes everywhere is: How can we restore and sustain a truly healthy and inclusive economy?

There are countless proposed strategies: some call for increased investment in innovation, others advocate for austerity and reduced spending. Everywhere, passionate debates continue. But amid the voices of economists, analysts, and policymakers, one voice from history offers a radically different perspective—one rooted not in financial theory, but in spiritual principle.

That voice is Christ Jesus’.

Though he never spoke directly about GDP, budgets, or inflation rates, Jesus demonstrated a way of life—what we might call a business model—that consistently met human needs. His model didn’t depend on material abundance, market conditions, or monetary systems. It depended on spiritual understanding and the infinite capacity of divine Love to provide for all.

At just 12 years old, Jesus declared, "I must be about my Father's business" (Luke 2:49). And throughout his life, that business was clear: to lift burdens, heal the broken, feed the hungry, and uplift humanity—not from a place of excess, but from a deep recognition of spiritual abundance.

Take for example one of the most well-known accounts of Jesus’ work: the feeding of thousands with just a few loaves of bread and some fish (see Matthew 15:32–38). For three days, a large crowd had followed him into a remote area, listening to his teachings. As hunger set in, his disciples saw a logistical impossibility: too many people and too little food.

Jesus saw something else.

He didn’t respond with anxiety or scarcity thinking. He gave thanks for what they had, blessed it, and distributed it. The outcome? Everyone ate until they were satisfied—and there were leftovers.

This wasn't about defying economics—it was about redefining the source of supply.

Jesus didn’t focus on what was lacking; he recognized what was present—and more importantly, the spiritual source behind it.

So, what does this ancient moment mean for us today—in boardrooms, small businesses, classrooms, and kitchen tables around the globe?

It challenges us to rethink our assumptions about supply and sustainability. Jesus demonstrated that divine Love, or God, is the ultimate source of supply—not limited by what we see in our wallets or economic forecasts. He saw material resources not as endpoints, but as reflections of deeper, spiritual ideas—ideas that grow and multiply when shared with compassion and faith.

Spiritual ideas like generosity, gratitude, creativity, and trust in divine provision are not only timeless—they’re transformative.

This spiritual perspective is not abstract idealism. It is deeply practical. When we acknowledge God as our source—our real supply chain—new ideas emerge. Solutions appear. Needs are met. In that sense, Jesus’ business model is both profoundly spiritual and incredibly strategic.

Mary Baker Eddy, a spiritual pioneer who studied Jesus’ works deeply, once wrote: "In the scientific relation of God to man, we find that whatever blesses one blesses all... Spirit, not matter, being the source of supply."

That understanding is just as relevant today. In a world of fluctuating markets and widening inequality, spiritual insight is a stabilizing force. We can choose to live with integrity, share generously, and trust that there is enough—not just for survival, but for flourishing.

I’ve found personally that living within God’s means—not human limitations—brings real results. It’s not about ignoring financial responsibility. It’s about letting spiritual understanding shape our decisions. As I focus on divine ideas rather than fear, new paths open. Opportunities arise. There’s enough to meet my needs and still bless others. And yes, sometimes there’s even a surplus.

Imagine if more businesses, families, and institutions adopted this model: meeting human needs by trusting a higher source, rather than reacting to fear or lack. That mindset has the power to shift not just individual lives, but entire economies.

Jesus’ business model wasn’t based on profit margins. It was based on purpose.

His was a mission of love, generosity, and unwavering trust in a Source that never runs dry. In following that example, we contribute not only to economic recovery—but to a more compassionate and just world.

And that is good for the global economy.