ep 22 Growing up in Nigeria, I often heard the saying, It takes a village to raise a child. As I stepped into the world of business, I realized that this wisdom applies just as much to entrepreneurship as it does to raising a child. Building and growing a successful business isn’t something you do alone—it requires a strong support system.

If you’re a Christian businesswoman, navigating the ups and downs of business while staying aligned with God’s purpose for you can be both rewarding and challenging. That’s why having the right people in your corner is essential.

So, what kind of support system do you need? I believe there are three key support systems that every Christian businesswoman should have, and we can learn about them through the story of Esther in the Bible.

Let’s dive in!

1. A Christian Business Coach or Mentor

One of the best decisions you can make in your business journey is to have a Christian business coach or mentor. This is someone who has walked the path before you and can guide you with wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice.

When we look at Esther’s story, we see that she had mentors who helped her navigate her journey. In Esther 2:9, we read that Haggai, who was in charge of the king’s harem, was impressed with Esther and gave her special treatment. He provided her with advice and resources that ultimately set her apart. Later, Mordecai, Esther’s uncle, also guided her with wisdom, helping her make critical decisions.

This is exactly what a business coach or mentor does! They share their experiences, provide insights, and help you avoid unnecessary mistakes. They can direct you toward resources, strategies, and opportunities that you might not have discovered on your own.

Now, you might be wondering—should you pay for a mentor? Some mentorship relationships develop naturally and don’t require payment, just like in Esther’s case. However, in the business world, many experienced coaches and mentors offer paid services, and investing in them can be incredibly beneficial. Whether it’s through one-on-one coaching, group coaching, or an online course, having someone guide you can accelerate your growth and help you stay on track.

Here’s why having a mentor or coach is invaluable:

• They help you gain clarity and direction.
  
• They provide support and encouragement when things get tough.
  
• They challenge you to grow and stretch beyond your comfort zone.
  
• They keep you accountable and help you stay focused on your goals.
  

2. A Business Support Group

The second type of support system you need is a business support group. This could be a mastermind group, a networking community, or an online forum where entrepreneurs come together to share insights, challenges, and encouragement.

Business can be lonely, especially when you’re trying to figure things out on your own. Being part of a group of like-minded individuals allows you to learn from others, share your own experiences, and stay motivated.

In Esther’s story, she had a support group too! When she was faced with the daunting task of approaching the king to save her people, she turned to her maids and the Jewish community in Susa. In Esther 4:16, she asked them to fast and pray with her for three days before she took action. That support system gave her the strength and courage she needed.

Similarly, when you’re facing challenges in your business, having a support group can be a game-changer. Here’s what being in a business support group does for you:

• It provides encouragement when you feel like giving up.
  
• It helps you learn from others’ experiences and avoid common pitfalls.
  
• It introduces you to new ideas and perspectives that can help your business grow.
  
• It creates opportunities for collaboration and partnerships.
  

If you don’t have a business support group yet, consider joining one! Look for Christian business communities, networking groups, or online forums where women of faith come together to uplift and support one another.

3. A Business Accountability Partner

The third support system every Christian businesswoman needs is an accountability partner. This person is different from a mentor or a support group—they are your business bestie, someone who will check in on you, hold you accountable to your goals, and call you out when you start slacking.

An accountability partner could be your spouse, a friend, a fellow business owner, or even someone you met in a support group. The key is that they should be someone who understands your vision and is committed to helping you stay on track.

In the story of Esther, Mordecai played this role. In Esther 4:13-14, he challenged her to step up and fulfill her calling, saying, “Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for such a time as this?” He didn’t sugarcoat things—he gave her the tough love she needed to take action.

That’s exactly what an accountability partner does! They push you when you’re feeling discouraged, remind you of your goals, and ensure that you’re staying aligned with God’s purpose for your business.

Here’s why having an accountability partner is powerful:

• They help you stay committed to your goals.
  
• They remind you of why you started, especially when you feel like giving up.
  
• They provide a fresh perspective and help you see things you might have missed.
  
• They celebrate your wins with you and encourage you through the losses.
  

If you don’t have an accountability partner yet, pray about it and start looking for someone who aligns with your values and business goals. Check within your church community, business networks, or even reach out to someone online who inspires you.

Final Thoughts: Build Your Support System!

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says, “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.”

You don’t have to do business alone. God designed us for community, and having the right support system can make all the difference in your journey as a Christian businesswoman.

So, let’s recap: ✅ Get a Christian business coach or mentor to guide you and provide wisdom. ✅ Join a business support group to stay encouraged and connected. ✅ Find a business accountability partner to keep you on track.

Now, I encourage you to take action! Start looking for these three support systems and begin building them into your business journey.

I’d love to hear from you—do you already have a mentor, support group, or accountability partner? If not, which one will you be focusing on first? Drop a comment below and let’s chat!

And if this post encouraged you, share it with a fellow Christian businesswoman who needs to hear this today. Let’s build strong businesses together, rooted in faith and purpose!