From Compartmentalization to Kingdom Impact: Christy Lewis's Journey of Integrated Faith in Business

Christy Lewis, a leader in property management and the driving force behind Root Management, shares a powerful journey of integrating her faith into every aspect of her life and business. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of a holistic approach to faith, moving from a compartmentalized existence to one where God's glory is central to every decision.

Christy's faith journey began uniquely, rooted in an after-school program at a local church. As a child, she found an unexpected passion in Bible quizzing, a program that required memorizing scripture. "Who takes a neighborhood kid and finds a desire and a passion to memorize the scripture?" she reflects, highlighting the divine orchestration of her early spiritual development. This foundational experience, particularly memorizing the book of Acts while in middle school, instilled in her a deep appreciation for God's Word.

From Compartmentalization to Integration

For years, Christy admits she was a "compartmentalizer." Her faith, family, and work lives existed in separate silos. This approach, she observed, was even echoed by some respected Christian colleagues who believed work was a distinct domain. However, a period of personal frustration and anger led her to Christian counseling, where a pivotal quote from Mark Batterson reshaped her perspective: "Don't let your talent take you where your character can't sustain you." This insight sparked a profound realization: her faith couldn't be confined to Sundays or personal moments; it needed to permeate her entire being, especially her professional life.

This awakening led to a significant shift in her business trajectory. Previously involved in a partnership focused on equity, Christy made the courageous decision to exit and launch Root Management. "I want to invest in people and I want to invest in teams," she declared, recognizing that this new venture was God's calling for her to impact lives. Root Management, established in October of last year, is built on the core focus of "make lives better, achieve big goals together." This mission reflects Christy's commitment to being a good steward of her responsibilities, building relationships within communities, and ensuring that every interaction mirrors God's love.

Challenges and Convictions in Faith-Driven Leadership

Integrating faith into her business hasn't been without its challenges. The transition involved navigating team dynamics, overcoming past cultural issues, and leading through financial uncertainties. Yet, Christy's unwavering belief in God's promises has been her anchor. She openly shares her faith with her team, even when it might be met with skepticism from those who don't share her beliefs. "I'm just praying," she tells them, a simple yet profound statement that underscores her reliance on divine guidance.

Christy emphasizes the importance of being a "praying leader" rather than just a leader who prays. Inspired by the book "Lead with Prayer," she strives to start her days in prayer, interceding for her staff and seeking God's will for the business. This intentional approach has transformed her leadership style, helping her to lead with mission and purpose, even amidst her passionate nature.

Biblical Foundations for Marketplace Impact

Her commitment to an integrated faith is further solidified by a verse from 1 Peter: "Care for the flock God has entrusted you, not grudgingly, but willingly and not because of what you can get out of it, but because you're eager to please God." This scripture, alongside Batterson's quote, serves as her guiding principle, reminding her that even in a for-profit business, decisions must be made with God's glory in mind. "When that's in your mind, when love is in your mind, it's going to shine through," she affirms.

Christy's journey from compartmentalization to a fully integrated faith is a powerful example for leaders seeking to align their professional lives with their spiritual convictions. Her story demonstrates that when faith is at the core, it not only transforms individuals but also impacts businesses, communities, and the lives of those they serve.