God's Goodness in the Groundbreaking
How R. G. LeTourneau Excavated Kingdom while giving 90%
There are stories of faith in business that make headlines and endure in history books, but hidden in plain sight is the incredible life of R. G. LeTourneau—an American engineer-entrepreneur who believed that business is more than making profit: it’s worship.
From Digger to Discipler
In the early 20th century, R. G. LeTourneau pioneered modern earth‑moving equipment. His machines reshaped landscapes. But what made him exceptional wasn’t his engineering—it was his economics of worship.
LeTourneau made a startling commitment: he would live on 10 percent of what he earned, giving the other 90 percent away. That wasn’t just generosity—it was faith. He said, “I shovel out the money, and God shovels it back—but God has a bigger shovel.”
Kingdom Return on Investment
With only a tenth of his salary retained, LeTourneau still built one of the most successful industrial firms of his day. He didn’t just survive—he thrived. He invested in people, founded a technical institute for training Christian engineers, and funded missionary projects in Liberia and Peru.
His giving wasn’t a tax deduction or feel-good gesture—it was a strategic act of obedience. He invited people to join the gospel’s cause through their own work and creativity.
The Testimony of Jesus at Work
What does this story tell us? It’s this: the testimony of Jesus in business is more than words—it’s stewardship that speaks louder than slogans.
LeTourneau’s posture says: I trust Him enough to lay aside worldly gain so He can grow eternal impact.
He wrestled not just with profit margins but with purpose margins. By aligning his business with his faith, he unlocked a flow of provision—often beyond what anyone expected.
Worship as Work
In every machine he built, every institute he founded, every mission he funded, R. G. LeTourneau testified: Jesus is Lord of business.
The spirit of prophecy—the testimony of Jesus—spoke through his spreadsheets, press releases, and charitable gifts. His company wasn’t just an employer; it was a witness of God’s goodness!
Our Next Move
Maybe you're in a startup, a small business, or a corporate role. What if your giving strategy became your worship strategy? What if your profit was a platform, not a prize?
Could you shift your posture—viewing finances as seeds, not wages?
Could your work become a living manifesto of trust in Jesus’ promise?
Invitation
Let this story breathe hope into your own faith-infused work. Not because 90% is the rule, but because trust is the posture. God is calling for partners who will build businesses not just for bread, but for blessing.
What do you need God to show you to venture down a similar road?