Guest

Herbert Addison Burns (Herb) - Faith-based business consultant and former prison chaplain from Northeast Ohio who helps business owners align their practices with biblical principles.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Simon welcomes Herb Burns to discuss how to run a business according to Holy Scripture. Herb shares practical wisdom on integrating biblical principles into everyday business decisions, from employee relations to financial practices. The conversation covers meditation on Scripture, dealing with grief through faith, breaking worldly business habits, and finding God's guidance in both personal and professional challenges.

Key Topics Discussed

Scripture Retention & Meditation

1. Practical tip: Cut out distractions (turn off the radio) to focus on the Holy Spirit
2. Psalm 1:2
3. The power of meditating on God's word day and night
4. Don't just read Scripture—digest it and allow it to enter your inner being
5. Meditation removes anxiety, stress, and lower emotions

Personal Journey: Faith Through Loss

1. Herb shares his experience losing his youngest son nearly three years ago
2. Joshua 1:9
3. God's promise of strength and courage through challenges
4. The story of the Prodigal Son (Luke 5) and remembering the positive
5. Turning to God for strength in both personal life AND business

Common Business Pitfalls

Habits and Traditions vs. Biblical Principles:

1. "At-will" employment contracts and biblical oppression
2. Ephesians
3. No respect of persons (treating all employees equally)
4. The "good old boy network" and partial treatment
5. Leaning on your own understanding vs. seeking God's wisdom

Biblical Business Practices

1. Pull underperforming employees aside privately (show mercy like Christ)
2. Give people a chance to improve before reprimanding
3. Pray for the wisdom of Solomon when facing difficult decisions
4. Recognize when God's voice comes through others as an act of mercy

The Danger of Pride in Business

1. Proverbs 3:5
2. "Lean not on your own understanding"
3. Proverbs 28:25-26
4. Trusting your own heart makes you a fool