In the world of business strategy, there are many ideas on how to achieve long-term success. One of the most influential voices in this conversation is Michael Porter, who along with Jan Rivkin, co-authored the seminal article “Operational Effectiveness Is Not Strategy” for the Harvard Business Review. In this piece, they argue that focusing solely on management tools and operational efficiency is not enough. Instead, they infer that companies should put sales at the heart of their strategies. While this approach makes sense, particularly for companies looking to grow revenue, I believe there’s an even deeper layer to sustainable business success.

Through my own research for my doctoral thesis, I found empirical evidence supporting the hypothesis that corporate entrepreneurship and innovation are the real driving forces behind company longevity. Businesses that are constantly evolving, embracing new ideas, and challenging the status quo are the ones that not only survive but thrive. However, after years of experience in both professional and academic settings, I am now more than convinced that there’s something even more fundamental at play: putting God at the center of strategy.

Beyond Innovation: Stakeholders and God First

In today’s world, businesses talk a lot about putting stakeholders—employees, customers, shareholders, and communities—at the center of their strategies. It is now socalled ESG or the concepts of being sustainable. While this is a key component of success, I propose that putting God first is the ultimate foundation for true and sustainable growth.

As we look at numerous studies on friendship, they show that strong, meaningful relationships contribute to better mental health, increased longevity, and overall life satisfaction. I believe the same is true in business. Our ultimate friend is God, and when we place our relationship with Him at the center of what we do, we gain the wisdom, humility, and strength to serve others better. This is the foundation for transformational leadership that transcends mere financial metrics.

When we imitate God’s qualities—His love, patience, and kindness—we positively impact others. Whether we’re leading a team or serving a client, when we focus on sacrificial accompaniment to those around us, the results are profound.

The Power of Sacrifice in Leadership

The word sacrifice comes from the Latin words sacra (sacred rites) and facere (to make or do). In essence, sacrifice means to make something sacred. When we sacrifice our time, energy, or even our resources for the benefit of others, we elevate our actions to a higher purpose. For me, this is the essence of servant leadership.

In business, this could mean prioritizing the needs of a customer, taking extra time to mentor a struggling employee, or going above and beyond in ensuring that stakeholders feel valued and heard. Sacrificial accompaniment is not about losing something; it’s about gaining something greater. By putting the well-being of our clients and stakeholders first, we create lasting relationships built on trust, respect, and genuine care.

And the remarkable thing is this: when we sacrifice for others, we often find that it comes back to us in ways we could never anticipate. Businesses that serve with humility and empathy are often rewarded with loyal customers, motivated employees, and sustainable growth. Sacrifice, in this sense, is not a cost but an investment—one that yields immeasurable returns, both spiritually and materially.

A New Way Forward: Faith-Driven Business Strategy

As I reflect on the countless strategies I’ve seen implemented over my 30+ years in the professional services world, one thing is clear: the best results come when we integrate our faith into our work. This is not about preaching or imposing beliefs on others. Instead, it’s about leading with integrity, making decisions that honor God’s principles, and viewing our work as a way to positively impact the lives of others.

Putting God at the center of strategy is about aligning our actions with a higher purpose. It’s about recognizing that true success isn’t just measured by profits or market share, but by the positive transformations we bring to the world around us. When we do that, we find that both our personal and professional lives are enriched.

Conclusion: The Best Strategy for Sustainable Growth

Michael Porter and Jan Rivkin were right to point out that operational effectiveness alone is not enough for strategic success. But I would argue that even beyond sales and innovation, there is a deeper truth: putting God first and focusing on sacrificial leadership will lead to outcomes that are not only profitable but transformative. I am sure that if we drive our sales tactics by considering the wellness of our customers and clients, we are taking the very first step.

When businesses lead with purpose, honor God’s principles, and sacrifice for their stakeholders, they build not just companies but legacies—ones that stand the test of time. This is how we achieve sustainable growth and leave a lasting impact on both society and the economy. In the end, the best business strategy is the one that puts faith and service at the heart of everything we do.