In 1978, two women began their own business—Wetherill Associates, Inc—in an industry not typically associated with female entrepreneurs: automobile parts. Wetherill rebuilds and distributes replacement car parts.

The founders (Marie Bothe and Edith Gripton) had the idea to develop a business based on ethical practices; they wanted their company to be a living example of the maxim: "Right actions lead to right results. Wrong action leads to wrong results."

As part of their training, employees were taught to apply ethical standards to all matters of their job performance. For example, sales people were told never to pressure customers, never to discredit competitors, never to use negative sales tactics, and—most of all—under no conditions were they to lie.

So what are the chances a company led by two idealistic women can survive in the dog-eat-dog world of used car parts?

Most people who were asked that question in 1978 laughed condescendingly. But they're not laughing anymore. Four decades later, Wetherill Associates is still going strong. Sales are in the hundreds of millions; profits are in the tens of millions, and the company is debt-free.

You've probably been told before that you have to cut ethical corners in order to succeed in business. This kind of thinking has even worked its way into the ministry. In contrast, God's word reminds us of the real truth: You will reap what you sow.