The new vocation trend going on today is to become entrepreneurial. If you're planning to start a business and you're a believer, you'll want to know that God has not left you on your own in this. Just as Jesus promises purpose and power to live lives for Him, He definitely also has those business decisions on His mind.

The Word of God is not only helpful in "spiritual" matters but also in very practical ones, too, such as starting a business venture. God wants to be involved in all our plans and asks that we invite Him into them. Proverbs 3:6 tells us, "In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths" (ESV).

Are you planning to start a business venture? Here are four questions based on biblical principles to help guide you in developing your business plan.

Is this God's will for me?

Sure a new business could bring you in augmented income, but is it God's will for you? Know that God has created all of us for a very good reason and until we know that purpose, we will not be able to reach our full potential. Jeremiah 29:11 tells us, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope" (ESV).

The word welfare refers to your career, prosperity, and posterity. God has a plan for your whole welfare and it's better than any plan we'll ever have. What has God called you to do?

Am I putting all my eggs in one basket?

While faith is a very strong theme in the Bible, it should never be at the expense of wisdom and risk management. God doesn't want you to go broke just because you put all your hopes on an "all or nothing" deal. Ecclesiastes 11:2 tells us, "Give a portion to seven, or even to eight, for you know not what disaster may happen on earth" (ESV).

How can I be a blessing to others through my business?

A business is not only supposed to meet your needs. It's supposed to meet the needs of customers, employees, and even suppliers. Behind every business is a supply chain of people involved in getting the product or service out and everyone can and should be blessed by it.

Luke 6:31 says, "And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them" (ESV). We are to be kind to one another because only then will people serve you, patronize you, and love working with you.

Does this idea honor God?

Above all else, a business exists to bring honor and glory to God. Is it a noble task? Can I help be a blessing to others through this? Will God be pleased in the way I conduct my activities? Colossians 3:17 commands us, "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him" (ESV).