Video Transcript: Week 6

Welcome back to Introduction to Business. Today we are going to explore a very important topic and one that if you do not get correct, may make it difficult to succeed.  Today, we’ll explore what it means to manage and lead in today’s organizations, drawing wisdom not only from business theory but also from timeless truths found in the Bible.

Management is the art and science of guiding resources—people, time, money, and technology—toward achieving organizational goals. Managers plan, organize, lead, and control. These four functions form a continuous cycle of decision-making and action.

As Proverbs 15:22 reminds us, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Good management involves collaboration, foresight, and adaptability.

Now that we understand the foundational role of management, let’s explore the first of its core functions: planning.

Planning is about anticipating the future and preparing for it. Strategic plans look years ahead, while tactical and operational plans focus on the near term. Contingency plans prepare organizations for the unexpected—like natural disasters or market disruptions.

James 4:15 offers a humble reminder: “Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’” Planning is essential, but it must be done with humility and flexibility.

With plans in place, the next step is to organize—bringing structure to vision.

Organizing involves structuring teams, assigning responsibilities, and ensuring resources are aligned with goals. It’s about creating a framework where people can thrive and collaborate effectively.

1 Corinthians 14:40 says, “But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.” Order and clarity empower people to do their best work.

Once the structure is set, leadership breathes life into the organization. Let’s explore what it means to lead with purpose.

Leadership is more than giving orders—it’s about inspiring, guiding, and empowering others. Great leaders adapt their style to the situation: some are directive, others are collaborative. The best leaders know when to step in and when to step back.

Jesus modeled servant leadership. In Mark 10:45, He said, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” True leadership is rooted in service, humility, and vision.

Leadership sets the tone, but how do we ensure we’re on track? That’s where control comes in.

Controlling involves monitoring progress, comparing results to goals, and making adjustments. It’s not about micromanaging—it’s about accountability and continuous improvement.

Proverbs 27:23 advises, “Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds.” In modern terms, this means knowing your business metrics and acting on them.

Now that we’ve covered the four functions of management, let’s look at the roles managers play in different settings.

Managers wear many hats: they gather information, build relationships, and make decisions. Some decisions are routine; others require creativity and courage. The best managers are those who can think critically and act decisively.

Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Wise decision-making blends insight with faith.

But what skills do managers need to succeed in this complex world? Let’s find out.

Managers need technical skills to understand the work, human skills to lead people, and conceptual skills to see the big picture. As they rise in responsibility, the emphasis shifts from doing tasks to guiding teams and shaping strategy.

Ecclesiastes 10:10 says, “If the ax is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed, but skill will bring success.” Sharpening our skills is essential for effective leadership.

Finally, let’s explore the trends shaping the future of management.

Today’s managers must navigate crises, embrace technology, and lead across cultures. They must be agile, ethical, and globally minded. The world is changing fast—and so must our leadership.

Matthew 5:14 reminds us, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” As future leaders, you are called to shine—bringing integrity, wisdom, and compassion to the workplace.

Management is more than a job—it’s a calling. It’s about stewarding resources, empowering people, and making a difference. As you step into the world of business, remember: success is not just measured in profits, but in purpose.