Silicon Valley Success Without Purpose
Ken Eldred was a man driven by ambition, carving out a successful career in the heart of Silicon Valley. At just 27, he was offered a significant promotion at a major corporation, overseeing seven divisions and 350 employees. Despite his achievements, a persistent question haunted him: 'Is that all there is?' This question planted seeds of unease as he imagined his future success, fearing he might miss something crucial.
Surrendering Ambition in Prayer
Eldred wrestled with the intersection of his faith and career, initially believing he might have to leave business to pursue pastoral work. He vividly recalls a moment in a church parking lot, overwhelmed by this internal struggle. Praying there, he surrendered his ambitions, saying, 'Okay Lord, I can't take it anymore. I don't care what you do with me... You're gonna have to change the desires of my heart.'
Discovering Faith and Career Integration
This turning point led to a profound realization: integrating his faith with his business pursuits was not only possible but essential. Eldred embraced the concept of 'Kingdom business,' where ventures are designed to transform people and nations. He articulated this shift, emphasizing that his faith should influence his work by upholding biblical standards of integrity, morality, and love.
Walking in Divine Business Guidance
Eldred's journey was marked by challenges and divine guidance. In the face of financial devastation, he witnessed God's faithfulness firsthand, as a new company he started grew from nothing to a $40 billion valuation. He emphasizes that success wasn't about wealth but about contributing to God's work.
Throughout his ventures, from founding Inmac and Ariba Technologies to his roles at Living Stones Foundation and Parakletos Ventures, Eldred has remained committed to living an integrated life. He believes that God is as interested in business as any other area and that one can be a spiritual leader in the business community. Eldred's story is a powerful testimony of how Jesus transformed his life, guiding him to align his business pursuits with his faith and purpose.
