In this episode of Changing Times, host Lynn Morris interviews guest Conrad Griggs live at the Acts Media Group headquarters in Springfield, Missouri. The discussion centers on 94X, a rapidly growing Christian movement designed to help business leaders, employees, and public servants integrate their faith directly into the professional workplace.
What is the 94X Movement?
- The Origin Story: The movement was popularized by Sean Kouplen, a deeply faithful man from Oklahoma who bought Regent Bank in 2007. Facing the 2008 financial crisis, the bank desperately needed a $3 million infusion to survive. After breaking down in prayer during a church service, Kouplen received a miraculous call from the U.S. Treasury Department the following week, informing him that his regional bank was uniquely selected to receive the exact $3 million funding. Today, it is a thriving multi-billion-dollar bank that utilizes its platform to spread Christian values.
- The Book: The principles are detailed in the book 94X: Everything Changes When You Bring God Into Your Business, co-authored by Sean Kouplen and Mick Schovanec.
The 94X Philosophy & The 94:1 Ratio
The foundational concept of 94X comes from a simple mathematical equation comparing time spent at work versus time spent at church:
- 160 Hours: The average number of hours an employee spends in the workplace every month.
- 1.7 Hours: The average number of hours an individual spends in a traditional place of worship every month.
- The 94x Factor: Because people spend roughly 94 times more time at work than at church, the workplace represents the most significant modern mission field.
- The Goal: The movement challenges leaders and employees to view their offices and storefronts as ministries. This involves implementing godly principles, practicing active integrity, and offering mutual prayer and support without forcing beliefs on anyone.
Local Impact and Regional Outreach
Conrad Griggs serves to promote faith in business throughout the region, highlighting several local initiatives:
- Faith in Business Breakfasts: Free monthly breakfast gatherings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at the White River Room (Bass Pro) in Springfield, regularly drawing hundreds of business leaders and workers.
- Regional Expansion: Active breakfast networks are running at the Keeter Center in Branson, with new networks establishing in Joplin.
- The 12 Principles: The movement operates on 12 core principles organized in a triangle, starting fundamentally with the call to Abide in God.
- Daily Connection: Regent Bank hosts a public daily morning devotional call and provides a dedicated prayer line for testimonies and community requests.
Key Themes & Faith Reflections
- Prayer in Government Work: Host Lynn Morris shares his personal efforts bringing 94X principles to the Christian County courthouse. By visiting offices and asking public staff for prayer requests, he notes an overwhelming sense of workplace peace and connection.
- Folds of Honor Partnership: The local organization actively supports Folds of Honor, an organization that provides academic scholarships (from undergraduate up to PhD level) to the children of fallen military members and first responders.
- The Power of Active Listening: Griggs emphasizes that Jesus was a profound listener. He highlights that everyone carries an invisible burden, and practicing true, focused listening within families and businesses allows the Holy Spirit to work through you to support others.
