The president of a major US retailer has been recognised for his biblical values as his company remains embroiled in a legal fight over a healthcare policy that contradicts its Christian ethos.
Steve Green, of Hobby Lobby, is this year's recipient of the National Bible Association's John M Templeton Biblical Values Award given in recognition of a business leader who exemplifies biblical values in the workplace.
Hobby Lobby is one of the biggest arts-and-crafts chains in the US and was founded by devout Christian David Green.
The family business has sought to uphold biblical values from its outset, remaining closed on Sundays and paying employees 80 per cent above the minimum wage.
Now it is refusing to comply with a US government mandate to provide healthcare to employees that covers abortion-inducing drugs.
It has found a way of temporarily delaying compliance with the Obamacare stipulation in order to avoid daily fines of $1.3 million.
Green will be recognised at the National Bible Association's awards in New York City on 15 April.
The charity will also make a $25,000 donation to a non-profit chosen by Green.
"Biblical values are at the core of Hobby Lobby's business - from closing stores on Sundays to defending religious liberty. The bar has been set high for Biblical values in the work place," said Richard Glickstein, NBA President.
"Steve is an outstanding example for business leaders across the country, and we are grateful for his exemplary spiritual values and his continued commitment to the Bible."
Green said it was an honour to be receiving the Templeton award.
"I am humbled to join the ranks of other leaders who are committed to the Bible to guide their spiritual and religious beliefs as well as their business," he said.
