From Isha To Eve- Principles for Doing Business with Fellow Saints
1. You should go into every business relationship with a brother looking to give something additional, rather than trying to get something additional.
Don't expect discounts because you are a brother. Try, when possible, to give something additional because he's a brother.
2. When someone in the fellowship is doing business with you, you are not responsible for whether or not they are observing #1 above.
3. When you decide to stop using the services of a brother it may be because of (a) ordinary reasons (price, distance, etc.), (b) slipshod or substandard workmanship, or (c) unethical work (biblically defined.). For (a), no explanation is necessary. Just go your way, If the person asks, tell them. For (b), you must tell your brother about your concerns. If you have done so, then it is legitimate to express those concerns to others if they seek or need your recommendation on this brother's work. For (c), you must follow the pattern given in Matthew 18.
4. Being a member of this Christian fellowship does not entitle you to free services or cheaper products. When you ask questions of a saint in business, it should be with the intent to determine whether or not you need their services, and not an attempt to get services without paying for them. You are free to find ways to barter amongst yourselves, but do not try to get more then you get. Remember # 1 in these situations.
This, of course, does not mean that mercy ministry will never apply in a special circumstance, but that is up to the person serving, not the one wanting the services. Be mindful that a mercy is extended, not grasped after.
In all cases, please consider other saints as more important than yourself. Do not ask things of them that you would not want others asking of you.
Kindly, encourage one another with candid correction, and praise where it is needed. We are here to help each other by serving one another.
May God bless our endeavors.
