As I step into the role of President of the Institute for Faith, Work & Economics (IFWE), I do so with immense gratitude and a deep sense of purpose. Hugh Whelchel often reminded us, “We must learn not to work just to live, but to live to work for the glory of God.”
His legacy challenges us to see our work—not as drudgery or merely a means to an end—but as a sacred calling through which we glorify God and contribute to the flourishing of his creation. As we enter this new chapter, I am inspired by Hugh’s vision to deepen and expand our efforts to equip believers to integrate their faith into every aspect of their lives.
A Shared Mission for a Flourishing Society
As we shared last week, IFWE joined the Coral Ridge family as a sister organization to the Institute for Faith & Culture (IFC). What makes me most excited about this development is that these ministries have already been aligned theologically and in purpose, but now they can grow in influence and strength together. We are united in a shared mission: to equip believers with the biblical tools and economic principles needed to live out their callings.
From my work at Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church to my passion for cultural renewal, I’ve witnessed how faith-filled individuals can transform their workplaces and communities when equipped with truth and purpose. IFC and IFWE are now uniquely positioned to help Christians rediscover the biblical view of work—not as drudgery but as a vital part of their Kingdom calling.
God’s redemptive plan is not confined to the sanctuary—it extends to boardrooms, classrooms, factories, and homes. Our work is an essential part of God’s calling to bring flourishing, or shalom, to the world. The biblical concept of flourishing involves creating, cultivating, and stewarding resources for the common good.
When we understand that every profession—whether in art, business, education, or technology—is an opportunity to reflect God’s creativity and advance His Kingdom, we transform our culture. This is the essence of whole-life stewardship, a privilege and responsibility entrusted to every believer. Dr. Anne Bradley describes this concept as foundational to the biblical call for human flourishing:
Our call to be good stewards arises from God’s perfect creation of the earth and everything in it. God’s work—the Garden of Eden—was perfect but unfinished. We are created to use our God-given creativity to leave more than what we were born into.
Stewardship is not merely about personal gain or isolated acts of service; it is a comprehensive mandate that includes cultivating our gifts, serving others, and advancing God’s Kingdom in every sphere of life. When Christians embrace this calling, they reflect God’s creativity and contribute to the restoration and flourishing of the world.
Equipping Believers for This Cultural Moment
In this new season, IFWE’s mission remains steadfast: to equip believers to navigate complex economic and cultural landscapes with biblically grounded wisdom. Through articles, research, and educational resources, we aim to challenge the cultural narrative that divides sacred and secular, reminding Christians that their work is an act of worship.
Whether advocating for economic freedom, exploring workplace challenges, or addressing pressing issues like poverty, we will continue to provide a biblical framework for understanding work and economics. Our goal is to inspire confidence in God’s plan for redemption and renewal through His people.
Help Us Expand Our Mission in 2025 & Beyond
As we chart this new course, we invite you to join us. Your financial support is essential to fuel this vital work of equipping believers to live out their faith through their vocations and to transform culture for God’s glory. The funds we raise will enable us to expand our network, ensuring we have more voices to speak into the intersection of faith, work, and economics. With your partnership, we can also undertake groundbreaking new research, addressing pressing cultural and economic questions through a biblical lens.
Additionally, your generosity will allow us to create and publish new educational resources—tools that help Christians understand their role in God’s redemptive plan and equip them to live as faithful stewards in every area of life. We are also committed to reaching new audiences with this transformative message, broadening our impact in workplaces, communities, and beyond. Through 2025 and beyond, your gift can make a profound difference in shaping lives and advancing the work of God’s Kingdom.
I am excited to take on the leadership role of the Institute for Faith, Work & Economics; but I simply cannot do this work on my own. Would YOU join me by making a generous contribution today? Our time here on Earth is short, and together, we can make a lasting, eternal difference for our children, grandchildren, and generations to come—for God’s glory!
Editor’s Note: If you choose to give to IFWE online, you will be directed to a giving page hosted by our partner, the Institute for Faith & Culture, designated for IFWE. There, you can give a one-time gift or set up a recurring gift. Your generous tax-deductible donation helps us continue to empower Christians to use their vocation to change the world.
