What Do Donkeys, Taxes, and Your Business Have in Common?

Wait. Donkeys?

Yes, I said donkeys.

If you’ve ever thumbed through the Old Testament (Leviticus, anyone?), you may have stumbled across a curious little law: Don’t muzzle the ox while it’s treading out the grain (Deuteronomy 25:4).

Which got me thinking—what does that ancient agrarian command from scripture have to do with modern-day ethical business practices?

Quite a lot, as it turns out.

See, the principle behind this law is fairness. If the ox is doing the work, then it deserves to eat some of the grain. That same spirit of fairness, generosity, and integrity is present throughout scripture. If you’re a Christian woman entrepreneur—juggling your side hustle, faith life, friendships, and wondering if you’re doing business “God’s way”—this is your invitation to dig in.

Let’s explore how you can root your business in ethical practices inspired by scripture… without feeling salesy, pushy, or like you’re treading the grain without a snack.

1. Pay the Worker Their Wages

Let’s start with a little blunt honesty.

If you’re undercharging, offering freebies because you “don’t want to seem greedy,” or working twice as hard for half the pay—pause for a second.

Because scripture doesn’t pull punches here:

“The worker deserves his wages.” – Luke 10:7

Fair compensation is a biblical principle. It applies to others, sure—but also to you. That includes charging enough for your services so you’re not running on fumes.

Ethical business practices inspired by scripture means pricing with integrity. Not undervaluing yourself, and not overcharging either. It’s about finding that honest middle ground where your work is valued and sustainable.

What if undercharging isn’t just bad business—but disobedience?

Ouch, I know.

2. Taxes, Transparency, and Trust

Let’s tackle the sticky topic of taxes. (I heard that groan.)

Remember when the Pharisees tried to trap Jesus with a coin? His answer is famous:

“Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” – Matthew 22:21

In other words: Be transparent. Do the right thing, even when no one’s watching.

For us entrepreneurs, that means:

• Pay your taxes. Yes, even the complicated self-employment ones.
  
• Be upfront about your pricing. No hidden fees, no bait-and-switch.
  
• Honor your commitments. If you say you’ll deliver something, deliver.
  

It’s not glamorous. But transparency builds trust. And trust? That’s currency worth more than gold.

3. Love Your Neighbor (Yes, Even in Business)

Here’s where ethical business practices inspired by scripture hit their stride.

When Jesus summed up the law and the prophets, He said:

“Love your neighbor as yourself.” – Mark 12:31

But how does that translate to your business?

• Honor your clients’ time. Don’t ghost them. Follow up. Be responsive.
  
• Deliver value that matches (or exceeds) your price. If your service is $500, make sure it feels like it’s worth $500—or more.
  
• Respect boundaries. Don’t pressure people into a “yes” that feels like a “no.” Love them enough to let them decide.
  

Ethical marketing isn’t about manipulation. It’s about service.

If you’re ever unsure whether a sales tactic is right, ask: “Would I feel good if someone did this to me?”

If the answer is no… well, there’s your answer.

4. Rest Is Resistance (and a Command)

Let’s be real. The Business Believer Busy Burnout is a familiar feeling, isn’t it?

You know, the cycle of “doing all the things” while feeling like you’re not doing enough?

But scripture tells us:

“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.” – Exodus 20:8

Translation? Rest.

Rest isn’t a luxury—it’s a command.

Incorporating ethical business practices inspired by scripture means building rhythms of rest into your schedule. Saying no to the 24/7 hustle. Trusting that God provides even when you’re not working.

And here’s the kicker: Rest makes you better at business. A well-rested mind creates better ideas, serves clients more joyfully, and sees opportunities more clearly.

(Plus, burnout doesn’t look good on anyone.)

5. Stewardship Over Scarcity

Lastly, let’s talk about the scarcity mindset that whispers: “There’s not enough. I’ll never get more clients. I can’t raise my prices.”

But scripture reminds us:

“Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” – 1 Corinthians 4:2

You’re not here to hoard your gifts or play small out of fear. You’ve been entrusted with talents, skills, and opportunities. Stewardship means managing those well.

That might mean:

• Investing in learning (hello, NACWE community).
  
• Setting boundaries to protect your time and energy.
  
• Charging what your work is worth (remember the ox).
  

Scarcity shrinks your business. Stewardship grows it.

Final Thoughts: Business as a Ministry

Your business isn’t just a business. It’s a ministry.

When you align your work with ethical business practices inspired by scripture, you reflect God’s character to your clients, your community, and yourself.

It’s not about perfection (thank goodness), but about faithfulness.

So, whether you’re setting your prices, designing your offers, or figuring out how to market without feeling sleazy, remember:

You’re not walking this out alone.

At NACWE, we believe in faith-driven business strategies that help you thrive without compromising your values. If you’re ready to explore more ways to integrate your faith and business—while building genuine friendships with women who get it—join our community.

Come see how faith, finances, and friendships flourish together.