40 Days of Faith: Day 15

Hebrews 11:16a – But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one.

When Truett Cathy opened his first restaurant in Hapeville, Georgia in 1946, he had no idea his name would one day become synonymous with one of the most successful fast-food chains in America.

What set him apart wasn’t just the quality of his chicken, it was the quality of his convictions. Cathy made a controversial business decision early on – he would close every Chick-fil-A restaurant on Sundays. This wasn’t just the start-up phase or until things were running smoothly. No, Cathy’s conviction is that they would be closed every Sunday, permanently.

He believed that his employees deserved a day of rest and worship. He believed God honored Sabbath-keeping. And he believed success shouldn’t come at the expense of spiritual priorities. It was a bold move in an industry where Sunday sales can account for 10–15% of weekly revenue.

Most people would say keeping stores open seven days a week is good business practice. But Cathy wasn’t after what was good. He wanted what was best—what honored God.

Chick-fil-A is now one of the most profitable restaurant chains per square foot in the U.S.—outperforming most competitors despite being open one less day a week. I have had the pleasure of helping a few operators dedicate their new stores when they open. Corporate leaders come to town, and we have an opening ceremony and I would then say the prayer. In speaking to one of these in corporate leadership, he once told me that they did 10-15% more in six days than McDonalds did in seven.

But beyond the profits, Cathy’s choice inspired a culture of integrity, purpose, and faithfulness that has marked generations of employees, leaders, and franchise owners. As he once said, “I’d like to be remembered as one who kept my priorities in the right order… We live in a changing world, but we need to be reminded that the important things haven’t changed.”[1]

 The better country, the heavenly one that Hebrews 11:16 speaks of, is God’s best. As we long for that kingdom and day, how can we live differently in this kingdom? Is there a way to do business differently, living by the better kingdom principles today, than just what the world offers? Do we have a chance to make a difference in how we lead our employees, our homes, and in our volunteer roles that reflects God’s best? There is a better country that is coming, and there is an opportunity to choose the better way today that reflects our allegiance to the one who has granted us access to that better country.

 Let’s not settle for what works, but let’s pursue what honors God. Let’s not worry about the cost we will incur when we walk differently than the world around us, but instead, let’s focus on what we will gain. Let’s remember that in partnership with God, pursuing him and his best, there is great blessing.

 God’s best may require sacrifice. It may mean walking away from opportunities that look profitable but compromise your faith. But when we choose His way, we declare to the world where our true citizenship lies. Today, ask yourself: Am I chasing what is easy and profitable, or am I pursuing what honors God and points me toward His eternal kingdom?

Prayer:
Father, thank You that You have prepared a better country for me, one that will never fade and never fail. Forgive me for the times I have settled for less than Your best, chasing the temporary rewards of this world. Give me the courage to live by Your kingdom values today, even when it costs me something. Help me order my priorities so that my life reflects trust in You and points others toward the eternal home You have promised. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
 
   [1] Cathy, S. Truett. Eat Mor Chikin: Inspire More People. Looking Glass Books, 2002.