Can You Relate?
March 17th, 2007 | Michael Pink
I received a lengthy email from one of my readers today. His pain so moved me, I called him but only got his home voice mail, so I left him the best words of advice I could and decided to elaborate more in this email.
The man in question left a good job and under the leadership of God and with his wife’s buy-in, started a new business in residential design in which he was eminently qualified to serve. Now, 18 months later despite his hard work ethic, quality product and ethics, they are struggling to fight off bankruptcy. Ever been there?
The commitments people made when he started in business went away. He did work on the promise of payment and people defaulted. One fellow simply ripped him off directly and challenged him to file a suit. Nobody warned our friend that business was like that. He seemed to think people would treat him with the fairness and respect which he richly deserved. But not all people do. There are wolves out there. And some of them wear sheep’s clothing. (If you can relate to this fellow, please post a word of encouragement to him. He will see it.)
I suggested he read Luke 16 and the parable of the unjust steward where Jesus commends the unjust steward for his shrewdness, stating that the children of the world are wiser in their generation than the children of light. Many of the designer’s problems could have been avoided if he had insisted on “pay as you go” and taken other preventive measures to ensure he wasn’t robbed as he was. He was not foolish. He had not yet been seasoned. To be concluded in the next email.
Special Note: Now when you post a comment on this email in our blog, you can choose to receive an email telling you when someone else has added their comments. You will only be notified of other postings for the days that you post a response and select that option. This will increase dialog and a growing sense of community between members.
Digg This Share This
March 19th, 2007 at 7:21 am
Has this dear brother tried fasting and praying? If not, is he willing to do so - and would others join him for, say 7 days? I would.
March 19th, 2007 at 7:22 am
Wow. Yes, I’ve been there, and Michael is right: too often business is like this. We’d rather operate on trust, but it may just be true that strong paper-work and a mean (but fair!) attorney are necessary tools of any trade.
But what now? Would there be some brothers that would come around this gentleman and help him back to his feet? I know of one such situation in which some friends bought their friend’s house for what he had in it, then leased it back to him (with a little breathing room on a couple of months payments). Meanwhile, he got his income producing life back together and then was able to pay his way back out. After a couple of years he was able to buy his house back (for what was owed) and retained his former equity.
That doesn’t necessarily address other debt that may be hanging around from the business. Maybe there are some other ideas for that…but often forebearance can be negotiated.
Anyhoo, blessings brother. This too shall pass, I promise…
March 19th, 2007 at 7:31 am
To some degree I can relate. We started our business after I got laid off and were expecting a baby in 8 weeks. We were blessed have to equity in our house to use to carry us through, I don’t know if that is avaiable.
I can tell you that every time I had concerns about the business, I’d lift those to God and he would do amazing things for us. In my times of doubt, God kept telling me to cast my net and each time I was able to find business.
I maybe that he has to go after the debt owed to him and/or work on a settlement to take a percentage of what is owed.
Keep looking to God and he will give the proper action here.
March 19th, 2007 at 7:33 am
Don’t give in to defeat. You were willing to step out and take a risk. Learn from mistakes and seek the Lord. He will never leave you or forsake you. Sow into other businesses and be a blessing to others. Use your business as a marketplace ministry and not just for financial gain. I am learining that I am blessed to be a blessing to others. Make sure you are seeking the Kingdom of God above everything and all other things will be added. Mt. 6:33 God bless you as you allow God to bring good out of what seems like a failure. He can turn it around!
March 19th, 2007 at 7:38 am
If this brother wants to contact me at roybaylis@winwin-solutions.co.uk I will gladly try and help him clear his ditches.
March 19th, 2007 at 7:53 am
In 1980, I found myself facing bankruptcy, owing 10 millions dollars. I repented for assuming that God was directing me and He simply responded that He would take care of my debt.
Almost three monts later and things getting worse by the day, the Lord spoke to me to put my business on the altar like Abraham did Isaac. It was a struggle but I finally did this in the spirit and the same day the Lord sent an Angel to me and told me that the Lord had received my sacrifice and He was well pleased.
The Lord sent a man that I had never met or heard of and He told me that Jesus had sent him to take care of all of my financial needs.
I would encourge you to make sure you have built an altar and placed your busienss upon it. It would be good for you to do a word study on altars.
Blessings, Homer Owen, homerowen@peoplepc.com
March 19th, 2007 at 8:11 am
Brother, I feel your pain, I am seasoned! Unfortunately there is only one way to get there. I will pray for peace & wisdom.
I also liked what one brother said about others comming around you and helping. I like it because it is what we are suppose to do. (prefer one another)
If this ministry feels the need is justified and wants to start a fund, I will make a contibution.
March 19th, 2007 at 8:30 am
Dear Brother,
I know your pain. I too started a company awhile back, with my wife’s blessing, and 3 years later had to file bankruptcy. And i would change a thing. I learned too much and I am such a better businessman for it.
And yes, there are those out there that will take advantage of you. As painful as that is, don’t get discouraged. Instead, get encouraged. This simply means you are one step closer to success.
If this is your dream, then don’t you let a few bad experiences stop you. Too often people quit right before they succeed. The world is full of quitters, don’t be one too. And yes, I know how hard it is going to be for you. But that is why not everyone can start their own business. They quit when it gets hard.
Everyone must enter into a desert to get seasoned for God’s work. You are in a desert right now. You should be thankful for this time because you will come out stronger. When a steal blade is made, it must be put into the fire…..a very hot fire, to get rid of the impurities. It is taken out and molded, then put back in. This process is repeated….in the fire, out of the fire, in the fire, out of the fire. The more times it goes in, the stronger it gets. You my friend are in the fire getting stronger. THAT IS A GOOD THING!!! It means God has a bigger purpose for you.
Its time to ‘cowboy up’ my friend, time to get tough. Grit them teeth and say, “I will not give up today.” I promise you won’t regret it.
I know this will sound funny, but I am happy for you. I am happy because I know what you are going through and I also know where you are about to end up. It is a great place, so don’t give up. Get determined!!! God will not give you more than you can handle. He loves you. Give him thanks today for you desert, it is a time to get closer to the Lord. Can’t think of anything better.
God Bless.
Chris
March 19th, 2007 at 8:41 am
Homer shared some great advice regarding putting the business and all future business/income producing ventures on the altar declaring from the ground up that the business is a stewardship responsibility of yours but the owner is God. I have been “seasoned” as Michael described it and have learned that many people who are “children of the kingdom” are never trained in the running of a business. Rather they approach the business with the same w2, or employee, mentality they had when they worked as an employee. The nature of running a business is quite different than being an employee and a shift from employee to proprietor thinking is generally required to make the transition succesful. There are a couple of great books on the subject including Dennis Peacocks “Doing Business Gods Way” and another by Ray Landers titled “Wealth or Mammon”. Both are great additions to anyones Christian Business Library. On a practical note, if it is not too late, and it is never too late as Delay is not Denial and Darkness is not Defeat, then it could be advantagious for a tactical plan to be developed whereby this gentlemen approaches those who he has worked for who have not paid him and share with him candidly their need to pay him. Lawyers are valuable especially when someone owes you and flagrantly puts it in your face. We are commended to settle our disputes before getting to the judge but that requires a willingness by both parties to avoid a suit. Protecting ones work product and contractual relationship is at times like a “cold war”. Meaning, as long as the threat keeps you at bay, then the threat will remain. If you call the bluff and make use of an attorney, you may find he helps you develop a better contract while also getting some of your fees back. Another good book is E-Myth. Michael Gerber is the author and has some “colorful” language. Despite that, he is right on the money in terms of his approach and anyone shifting from an employee status to a self employed status should avail themselves to this resource. I apologize for the long post but there is much to this situation and many like this man out there. Anything we can do to help them before they get into this kind of ditch is worthy of a little time. Please respond if you have any additional questions that I can help with. Good luck and I will be praying for you. Do some scripture reading on altars and allies and see what God will show you as He will always show Himself strong and His children will not be begging for bread. Blessings to you, Jay.
March 19th, 2007 at 8:56 am
Yes, I was in a similar situation and am still wading through the results of the indebtedness. If I read the problem correctly, then you received approval to move ahead with this business from the two highest sources in your life: God and your wife. It is only natural for Satan to want a piece of this action and he always seems of hit where it hurts. I agree with Roy who indicated prayer and fasting. I am in that season right now. In fact, just last week I took a day off, went to a lake about 50 miles from the house and spent it with God. I came away with 2 things: peace and the fact that God heard my prayers. I agree too with getting close brothers around you to help you through this both financially and spiritually. Too, your wife needs close friends as well to help her as she struggles on your behalf.
I would like to encourage every brother reading this to fast at least 1 meal this week on behalf of this friend in need. Let’s see what happens next week. Perhaps we can get an update from Michael.
Make God grace you in the form of peaceful prosperity!
Wally
March 19th, 2007 at 8:57 am
I will pray for you brother. I can relate to what you have been through. Despite the hardship, I took great comfort in knowing that God was with me every step. I also asked for prayer from my other brothers which was a great comfort. I too would be willing to donate and/or offer counsel.
March 19th, 2007 at 8:58 am
Sorry, the closing should have read…
May God grace you in the form of peaceful prosperity!
Wally
March 19th, 2007 at 9:13 am
I had a very wise man tell me once that GOD does not want our business to fail. HE only wants the very best for us. And I believe that more than ever. I am positive GOD would not crush businesses to prove some lesson to us. There is too much at risk to harm others if we fail in business. I do not think he would make others pay for us not trying hard enough or being smart enough or praying enough or reading enough, etc.. However, I have had HIM teach me things through small losses that I now know how to let HIM be in charge of. When we put him first, and don’t let the enemy tell you you have not put him first enough either, HE is in this for and with you. Oh, don’t misunderstand me, I had a business fail. But, it was because I did not know HIM. And I wasn’t serving HIM. And we were harming everyone we came in contact with. How could GOD bless that? Know that HE is not the evil dad that beats us down when we try to succeed. But also know this, I am VERY confident that the enemy has even more reason to kill, steal, and destroy when we proclaim we are a Christian business. I have felt that many times. Even today. I also know HE wants us to depend on him for all parts of our business. I used to think that meant being a mamby - pamby Christian who could not make a decision without hours of seeking the LORD, praying, and stuffing my face in the word, (and OK, sometimes it takes that too, and it is never wasted time ) but HE gave us the responsibility to be in business. HE knows we can do it. Another wise man let me know it is NOT the field for your tithing. You are not called to lose money because you are a Christian. Make money and don’t let them steal it from you. You are called to do the work as to the LORD. Like all parts of the body, it takes all parts. We are called to be in business. And it is hard. It is a battle. A REAL BIG BATTLE. Know that we are not better, or lesser, it is just who HE wants us to be. And how would HE call us, and then let us fail? My advice? FIGHT the battle. And it ain’t over yet (trust me I could tell you stories about this part). And you CAN do it. That’s why he called you to it. And GOD does not make mistakes. I will be praying for you, Joe
March 19th, 2007 at 9:30 am
I deeply understand the magnitutde of the problem confronting our friend and would like to offer what help–emotional empathy and experience–that I can.
Please write. Help is available and you don’t even need to ask.
March 19th, 2007 at 9:47 am
Dear Sir,
Know that our rewards are not on this earth. The Good Lord knows your heart and sees it’s purity. He also sees those that have unfarily wronged you.
The Good Lord will look after you. You now also have the prayers of thousands if not millions interceeding on your behalf for God to have mercy and help you.
March 19th, 2007 at 9:49 am
For our friend in need: as Mr. Pink mentioned you must continue to be a faithful steward over whatever God as given you. But, putting basic steps or procedures in place that protect your business and those under you in that business can make you an even better steward. Taking those actions doesn’t mean that you’re not trusting God or operating in faith. Sometimes we must take a stand tell the world (& the enemy) that we’re in business and mean business. We don’t have to be more trusting or lenient than anyone else just because we profess Christ. If God has given you the inspiration and provision then by all means walk in your dominion and authority and set the stage for what you what you want to happen and how you want to operate. No backing down and no compromise. Hold to what He’s given you and ask for some additional steps to enhance what you’re believing for.
March 19th, 2007 at 9:50 am
Following what you have been instructed to do can be difficult. Seems like my Sunday lesson fits this situation and I am being told to share my faith. I Cor 1:17-24 (if my memory is correct) basically says to follow your faith even though some may think it “foolish”. It’s not the messenger but the message that is important. The fact that you did what you were asked to do by opening your own business is the message to everyone of your faith. The fact that you were taken advantage of proves that there are those who think you are foolish. The main thing is that God is pleased that you were obedient. It is unfortunate that you are facing bankruptcy. As harsh as it sounds, there is a lesson there that you can teach others later. Don’t worry. You can take it. It will be over soon and you will still have the love of your family, friends and God. Isn’t that what’s most important anyway? Best of luck….and prayers for you and your family.
March 19th, 2007 at 9:55 am
The brother who introduced me to my wife and was my best man has owed me a substantial amount of money since 9/05 and refuses to pay. He and the debt have been given to the Lord.
Proverbs 11:1 and Matthew 6:33
March 19th, 2007 at 10:00 am
Just a word of encouragement from a sister. Be encouraged to know that you are not alone in your financial struggles. I will pray for you that your eyes will be open to see the wolves for who they are and be obedient to hear God’s word. I am also starting up a business and at this time I am waiting on the Lord to send my physical backer ( God is my spiritual backer). God has no hands but our hands so we need each other to help us fulfill His plans for us. With God, your wife and your spiritual family beside you will make it. This too shall pass.
Be always ready to move on God’s word and His time. Pray for me to receive my physical financial backer as I pray for you to receive your financial stability. Revon.
March 19th, 2007 at 10:05 am
A little correction “With God, your wife and your spiritual family beside you, you will make it.
Revon.
March 19th, 2007 at 10:27 am
Wow! I’m not alone!
I wept as I read each post and know all to well the pain, hurt and outright struggle of trying to run a business to the glory of God.
I too am going through the desert (after being pulled out of the pit) and I am walking minute by minute trusting God to guide and provide.
I have been obedient to God and His direction yet things seem to get worse for obeying. I don’t want to take away from our brother’s problems but I need answers as well……can anyone help?
I have been praying for a Christian businessman to help me sort through this time of trials. I speek to my pastor everyday and he is a great friend and comforter but he doesn’t understand what I’m going through and doesn’t know how to guide me.
My pastor , his wife and my wife and I have fasted and prayed, we daily search the Word, pray and seek God. I have read 14 books this year on Christain business practices and wisdom and I am at the point were I don’t feel like reading any more and when I go to God in prayer I just don’t have any thing more to say; I am wore out from crying out to God!
Thanks to all the above posts, they have been very encouraging.
God Bless you all!
Mike
March 19th, 2007 at 10:33 am
I too understand the piercing feelings of this situation; in the last 5 years I’ve gone ‘in & out of the fire’ so to speak. Can I possibly provide bullet points - two weeks after relocation, husb. w/ 6 figure income laid off, moved my whsl. design busn. - husb. help & learned ALOT - and then a designer derailed me, because I did not THEN have an iron clad contract backed by an atty. A year I spent trying other venues - it wasn’t the same. Got back in the saddle - now I’m doing my own design work. Meanwhile, my husb. got into another field w/ a partner and a man from OUR CHURCH! Again, deceitful practices & promises have us looking at a bleak situation. My husb. has trained for another career & is in the growth curve. WHAT HAPPENED OUT OF THE FIRST TIME IN THE FIRE? We both moved into career positions which better used our talents. I read an excerpt from Jabez about bombers in WWII that couldn’t approach their target due to heavy cloud cover over Kokura, Japan. Weeks later an intelligence report showed that the area they were to bomb had been coverted to a prison camp for captured US soldiers. Had there been no clouds they would have bombed their very own. I related this to the clouds I saw before which I’ve come thru and better. Now, again more turbulance on the horizon- it’s hard now to see on this side the fairness & justice out of the situation, but the last thing I am is Hopeless! God has given us talents & abilities that are not to be shunned or thwarted - possibly redirected/modified for a better purpose…educated/strengthened to combat against future obstacles. The verse written with that story in Jabez:”He makes the clouds His chariot; He walks upon the wings of the wind.” Psalm 104:3
March 19th, 2007 at 10:43 am
Mike, I (or even the brother about whom we are blogging) would be happy to talk with either of you. Send an e-mail to injesus1@covenant-systems.com and I will send you my contact info.
Wally
March 19th, 2007 at 10:54 am
Wally please send me an email@rfsaunders32@yahoo.com
March 19th, 2007 at 11:02 am
I was indeed touched by this story and so I wish to give my own little word of encouragement.
Life is not a bed of roses, whatever tribulations we go through even as believers God understands and knows best.
Take heart brother and look forward to another rainy day, after all, only the living can hope for a better tomorrow. While there is life, there is a lot of hope.
I%u2019m really looking forward to you taking a lot of strength in our lord Jesus.
God bless you.
Shalom.
March 19th, 2007 at 11:11 am
Trust no one. Christian or not. Even Christians are fallen. Churches and brothers will fail you. They as a rule do not follow Galatians 6:10. As much as we would like.
But just remember God is faithful and he will see you through this. Pray and ask him for direction. I know how I was at times close to bankruptcy with problems with the IRS and my own lack of good stewardship. God saw me through all of this dispite me not being as good as a steward that I needed to be. God knows our hearts and want to take us to a point of total dependence on Him.
I know God want to help you through this. He will show you what you need to learn but He will be with you in this. So enjoy this time because this can be one of the sweetest times you will have with Him. He draws near to us during these times that we sometimes look to these times to have such sweet fellowship.
He will help you and carry you through this time. God bless and I will be praying for you. God is faithful and takes care of His own.
March 19th, 2007 at 11:11 am
To Adeola,
Life is indeed a bed of roses. There are the thorns we must endure before we can get to, and enjoy the reward to the beautiful rose. But know that God helps us to prune the thorns from the stems of the rose bushes.
Revon
March 19th, 2007 at 11:12 am
Life is a lesson. We learn from others that went before us and succeeded and learn from their mistakes. We learn from our mistakes. We are to do what is right in the spiritual as well as the natural since we live in both realms. We first seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, then all that we seek will be added unto us. I started out many years ago as a personal natural haircare stylist which takes anywhere from 2 hours to 2 days per client. In the beginning starting out I would spend the alloted time and a couple of times the client claimed they were not satisfied, and did not pay!(actually they had a hidden adgenda) Boy, I was not a happy camper…So from that lesson I started doing free consultations collecting 25-50% of the gestimated fee up front (non refundable but could be credited towards future services within reason) then at the time of the appointment I received the balance. I learned that 100% of my efforts was not time and cost effective, I learned that wealth is based on income producing assets that would not interfere with what I currently do, generating residual income, longing to stay my own boss, and having multiple streams of income. So I started an online business www.decisioncollector.com that works for me while I work, and produces residual income from around the world. Know it all belongs to Him and we are to be a good steward over it! I ask God to lead and guide my steps in my spiritual walk, tithing, marriage, health, parenting, home, finances, having a grateful, thankful and forgiving spirit, He rebukes the devour for our sake. He is Jehovah Gmolah,Jehovah Jireh, Jehovah M’Kaddesh, Jehovah Nissi, Jehovah Shammah, I Am That I Am…
SILVER
March 19th, 2007 at 11:22 am
Been there brother. I request 50% down to start a job and an additional 25% at a fixed inspection point before completion. If they are of Pakistani or Indian culture, remember they are still negotiating after completion of the project. You will not get paid if you do not have their signature and more importantly their cash. Don’t except anything but cash or certified funds. It’s just their way of business. Be wise as foxes but harmless as doves. God bless
March 19th, 2007 at 11:24 am
I, too am a seasoned small business owner & my experience says that most small business owners are great at their craft or profession, but they haven’t got a clue how to be a business owner! That’s one of the biggest reasons why small businesses fail.
Setting up a successful business is key. You must educate yourself & get Godly counsel & legal counsel so you have all your ducks in a row. Always get a signed contract & some kind of down payment & payment schedule. If they aren’t willing to make that commitment, refuse to work for them. You must tell the client what you expect, be firm, strong, assertive & confident or they will eat you alive! Believe me, I know, because I am a business woman. We women have to be especially strong…..there are lots of wolves out there just waiting for us to show weakness.
In all you do make the Lord your silent partner & don’t be afraid to ask for help from someone with “skin on”. Wise counsel is also key.
Remember, this has “come to pass”….it has not come to stay. You will get thru it, with God’s help. You’ll be wiser & stronger. Be Blessed..we are praying for you.
March 19th, 2007 at 11:32 am
Wow - You can see - You are NOT ALONE! I am also encouraged by this.
I have had two partnerships and another venture that included other people and promises, etc. that brought disappointment. Each had its good and bad points. I was taken advantage of in every case. God is in the journey.
The decision to “persist without exception” is a good one here. Many of the greats have had multiple “seasoning” experiences (Lincoln, J.C. Penney as a couple of examples), before experiencing success.
Many will say this is to give them the strength to bear success - often a harder thing to stand in than failure. Keep persisting! Don’t give up!
Peace and blessings on you and your best partner (spouse) as you navigate the waters. You can do it!
Robb
March 19th, 2007 at 11:41 am
I think it is interesting how we can follow God’s leading and as soon as things don’t go our way, people come around and look for some fault in us. Look at Job’s friends. They were full of good advice, weren%u2019t they?
If we want to inherit the promise we have to stand in faith. The trials will come. The adversary isn’t just going to roll over and give up just because we try and move to a new level. I%u2019m not saying there aren%u2019t areas we can improve. I certainly can%u2019t speak for everyone, but I know there are always areas I can improve. I am a work in progress. My best days are ahead.
With this said, look at Abraham. God put the promise before him and then the trails came. While I have never faced bankruptcy, and do not have any children, I would certainly speculate that having to sacrifice a child, particularly a miracle child like Isaac, would be in a completely different realm than any kind of financial situation. But if we study Abraham, he stood in faith believing the promise. He didn%u2019t know how things were going to work out, but he knew they WERE GOING TO WORK OUT!
Brother, I would encourage you to stand in faith. Speak to your mountain. Command it to be removed and cast into the sea. Build your faith by speaking the Word over your business. Command the adversary in the name of Jesus to get his hands off your finances. God wants you to succeed and prosper! He wants your family to blessed! He wants you to have a miracle testimony to share with others. Seek the Lord for wisdom and guidance. God wants you to trust Him now more than ever. Let the Lord guide your steps and direct your paths. Don%u2019t walk by sight. We serve a God who loves to turn hopeless situations around.
I know in facing similar financial trials where clients hadn%u2019t paid, one of the things God spoke to me was to commit and offering to the Lord out of the amount owed. A few times I vowed the whole amount. Both times I did this, the check came within a few days. Granted, giving all your profits away doesn%u2019t help the bottom line in the natural, but it sure does a lot in the spiritual. We can%u2019t ever out give God. I believe sowing these kinds of gifts open the windows of heaven over your business. I would also encourage you to look for other areas to give, maybe not in finances, unless the Lord directs you, but in your talents and abilities. Give and it will be given back to you good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over.
Brother, you need to know God is working all things together for your good. No matter what happens you can trust Him. He will teach you more through this time than any other point in your life. You are becoming seasoned. You are becoming not just a stronger wiser businessman, but also a stronger wiser spiritual warrior who will wreak havoc on the adversary sharing your testimony of what you have learned with many others. Surely the body of Christ will be strengthened because you have grown and gone through the refiners fire.
Don%u2019t grow wearing in doing well for in due season you will reap the harvest if you faint not. Gal 6:9
Blessings,
Dave
March 19th, 2007 at 11:43 am
WOW! The comments are incredible and encouraging - and it’s awesome to meet each of you online, as well as to hear all the testimonies of how God is personally invovled in each of our lives.
Michael is spot on with Luke 16. Each of us needs to be wise. And, of course, one of the ways to obtain true wisdom, is the trial by fire situations we get ourselves in and out of.
When I wrote Michael last week, I was teetering on hopelessness - a sure tactic of the enemy to cloud vision and keep me from being effective. Michael’s phone message was just the loving kick in the shorts I needed. You’ve heard no man is an island, but unfortunately, our circumstances are such that we don’t have a lot of believing business folks around us that we can fellowship. I am truly grateful for this site.
I didn’t respond right away here, because I wasn’t sure what I wanted to say. As I write this, the house is cold because we ran out of oil and can’t afford to fill it up - BUT the Hope of Spring is right around the corner. (Remember Proverbs - A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul.) I said to my wife, “I wouldn’t want to win the lottery right now (dont’ worry, we don’t “play”) because I don’t want to miss the lesson God has for us. We’re making it, somehow.”
When I was down last week, the neighbor was getting her oil tank filled and I commented, “Glad she can afford it…” My wife responded, “Glad we know we can live without it!” God’s taking us through a sort of self-employed boot camp I guess.
Some of the wisdom I feel we are learning is that slow and steady wins the race. I don’t want to be an overnight success, because I’m not ready for it. However, I want to do what’s before me as unto Him - and our current cash flow is making that very difficult.
All that said, I do want to be wise at moving forward. For those that have graciously offered prayer, counsel, and/or financial support, I’ll email you individually.
March 19th, 2007 at 11:48 am
Gerald, please contact me as I have a personal message for you.
Regards,
Wally
injesus1@covenant-systems.com
March 19th, 2007 at 11:51 am
There has been much good godly advice above. In addition, I want to give some practical advice to pray and seek council about.
If the work that has been done is in relation to a residential home design, then you can always place a lein against the property. While this won’t guarantee immediate help, it does make it more difficult for the owner to sell or refinance.
The best advice I could give you regarding unpaid business debt is to spend much time in prayer AND pay for a couple of hours of time for the advice of a good attorney.
March 19th, 2007 at 11:53 am
Gerald
I had my own accounting practice for 18 years and had several of the same things happen to me.
I finally decided to take retainers and to never let any work out the door without getting payment.
The worker is worthy of his wages!
You have value!
March 19th, 2007 at 11:53 am
I have a Christians friend who owns a business and he told me that “Christians” were the worst to take advantage of him. Not only customers but Christians employee’s. He decided to quit hiring Christians. And then we wonder why we have no testamony.
March 19th, 2007 at 12:00 pm
I’m sorry, I forgot to list my email: gerald_forsburg@hotmail.com.
My website (such as it is): www.designshenandoah.com
I can be contacted through there as well.
March 19th, 2007 at 12:08 pm
Dear fellow blog reader/brother,
I also felt led by the Lord to start my business and it failed, certainly due to my own lack of ’seasoning’. I’ve been confused why the Lord led me down that path when He knew how ‘unseasoned’ I was and when He certainly foreknew I would fail because of my own actions. I owe my family large sums of money and it cost me a lot of the trust my wife had in my ‘direction from the Lord’. I’ve been confused for 5 years now, but the experience has benefited me in strange ways:
1. My wife stayed with me and proved her allegiance during life’s toughest times; I honor and value her more than ever and we celebrated our 25th anniversary last week.
2. I wouldn’t have chosen this outcome, but it has strengthened my faith.
3. Did you ever ask the Lord to give you faith? This is how he strengthened me.
4. Fasting and praying did not save my business, but they did give me more time with the Lord.
5. During that time I was used to lead a friend to the Lord. (He certainly says that my experience was worth his eternal salvation).
What do you think?
March 19th, 2007 at 12:18 pm
I too have had conversations with others about so-called christians taking advantage of them. The archtiects I have worked for over the years have said that churches are the worst. There are a lot of wolfs in sheep’s clothing, but we can’t let this embitter us. Instead, as the responses suggest, be wiser than serpents and more cunning than wolves. TI’m learning - or trying to - to manage expectations. From now on, I’ve decided that just becaseu my contract is well worded and not typed at some miniscule font, I need to spend more time up front goign over it with the clients. It surprises me that the clients that I have problems with are the most educated and knowledgable ones - they tend not to read the contract because they feel above it.
Same goes for employees - whether christian or not - make sure you’ve made the expectation clear. We’ve been in many “chrisitan” churches, ones with incredible worship services and testimonies and all the rest that goes with it, but there’s no depth to the foundations. We’re all prone fall prey to the temptation of self-righteousness.
Anyway, be led by the Lord. Don’t not hire a Christian because they are up front about being a believer - at the same time, I wouldn’t hire somebody based on that alone. Hire believers and non-believers alike, based on their commitment to working, and then marvel at how God uses them (and you) to minister one to another.
March 19th, 2007 at 12:33 pm
This is an email subscription from Os Hillman: Be encouraged-The Lord must have mighty plans for you and He wants you to learn from these experiences. God Bless you!
For he will be like a refiner’s fire or a launderer’s soap. - Malachi 3:2b
A Refiner’s Fire
by Os Hillman, March 17, 2007
For he will be like a refiner’s fire or a launderer’s soap. - Malachi 3:2b
The Lord has a specific manner of preparing His people for useful service. God desires to turn His children from rough, hard-edged stones into gems of gold and silver.
He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; He will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver. Then the Lord will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness, and the offerings of Judah and Jerusalem will be acceptable to the Lord, as in days gone by, as in former years (Malachi 3:3-4).
The refiner’s fire can only accomplish its purposes when the heat is turned up to extraordinary temperatures. It breaks down the metal in order for it to become moldable and shapeable. Only when the temperatures reach this level can the work be fully accomplished. So it is in our lives.
Until the Lord completes His refining process, the offerings we make are not made in righteousness and cannot be acceptable. Thank God that Jesus is our righteousness and that there is no righteousness apart from Him. Still, the Lord continues to purge all that is not of His righteousness out of our lives. This comes through trials that bring each of us to the end of ourselves in order that He may only reflect that which is Himself.
When God takes you through the refiner’s fire, be encouraged because it is His overriding commitment to turn you from a rough, hard-edged stone to a precious metal. He will do this through certain events in your workplace, your relationships, and other circumstances in your life. Our job is to avoid trying to blow out the fire.
March 19th, 2007 at 1:12 pm
I feel directed to point you to Philippians 4:6&7. I can’t relate to this in a business sense - I’ve never owned a business, but have found this to be a very powerful scripture in my life experiences. Way to go Pat Murphy! I just read that myself 5 minutes ago. Be encouraged!
March 19th, 2007 at 1:30 pm
I am in sales like all sales people we have talents giving to us by the Lord. WE can choose to use our talents that God has given us and be succcessful or we can give them to the Lord and He will supercharge them. It is no more thrilling then to hear your boss say. I know God must be on your side because you didn’t obviously do it. I smiled and said, “Now you are beginning to understand my faith.”
Not that I don’t put my hand to the plow but God is the one who pulls the plow and supercharges the seed. I just truly believe God wants us to be successful but he wants us to get to where we give it to Him.
What better words can we as Christians hear than the world acknoledged that God is who helping you to be successful. God is using it among my non-Christian fellow sales person. They all wonder at how I get the business. I just simply say its God. BUT this didn’t happen immediately but approximately two years of selling where I was successful. I was bashed pretty regularly about my faith during that time period. I wear a small cross on my shirt as a witness and when things weren’t so successful my boss ’suggested’ I take of the cross. I said I would quit first. That was the turning point.
God just want to know that he has our heart and he will do the rest. Let faith blossom as a result of this and as Moses was told by God, ‘Watch Me do a wondrouse work.’ God is doing a wondrouse work in you NOW.
March 19th, 2007 at 2:18 pm
where are you located? I may have some work for you. We are a christian builder in the Charleston Sc area.
March 19th, 2007 at 2:27 pm
Gerald, Just because someone offers to pay cash you can still treat the transaction “as if” it were a bank loan. When a portion of the work is done the next will be started when the earlier portion is paid for. Even if all that you receive is enough to cover your costs, at least your creditors will be paid.
Most importantly, don’t be afraid to turn business down. Ask for a fair retainer upfront, set the stage for payments as work progresses with a clear determination of what constitutes a finished job. Also, don’t allow changes without a new cost determination and signatures.
During this time focus as much, if not more on generating new business. Smaller remodels generate quicker cash. Contact realtors for “quick fixes” to make properties more sellable…
March 19th, 2007 at 2:38 pm
Two things.
Meditate on James 1
The process: going through trainls
The goal: that you may mature and complete, lacking nothing.
Do you want the goal? Then you must go through the process.
Today, right now, what is the next right thing that you can do? This action may not gring resolution, but it is the next right thing to do - by definition that action will lead toward resolution.
Coming out of the desert, Gary
March 19th, 2007 at 3:25 pm
I was ripped of in a real estate deal by a “wolf in sheep’s clothing” so I know how this feels. It has led me to total dependence on the Lord which is what He wanted all along.
March 19th, 2007 at 3:44 pm
Dear Friend
there are so many replies I want to make it simple for you and your wife. I will pray for your business and forgive those who have come dressed in ’sheep’s clothing’ 3John;2 and Psalms 91.
March 19th, 2007 at 3:52 pm
Jeff, I’m in Virginia.
www.designshenandoah.com
Feel free to contact me and we can discuss an arrangement.
Thanks.
March 19th, 2007 at 7:15 pm
Dear Brother:
As you can see you are not alone; may the Lord our God bless those who harmed you; I truly hope that you get a learning lesson out of this one and that for the future you can implement better policy for your business, I am sure that God will use this as a blessing. Please do continue to give Him all the glory and praise, He will take care of you in the middle of the storm.
In Christ,
Jose Raul Rodriguez
%u201CBut the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.%u201D- Galatians 5:22-23
March 19th, 2007 at 7:18 pm
One of most encouraging things to do is get around some very positive Christian men who love you and will continue to pray and care about you.. Many if not all on this post have tried to reach out to you…When going through tough times i found myself reading Psalms quite a bit…try to meet with some men each week and focus not just on yourself, but how you can help someone.. no matter how difficult life is for you… try to do something special for someone else.. it doesn’t have to be something that is a financial burden for you.. but something in which you extended your hand to help another person… it’s amazing how it will get your mind off your own troubles..
March 19th, 2007 at 7:27 pm
What a wealth of wisdom. Al you guys and gals are really great. I know I would feel encouraged if this was me.
Isn’t great to know you are not alone and there are so many great Christians willing to give great spiritual and practical counsel.
We are not alone. Praise God.
March 19th, 2007 at 7:57 pm
A couple decades ago I began a painting company and though I was “groomed” by my grandfather to be successful in the industry, when I first started out I tried to be “more understanding” than my grandfather seemed to be with people.
It only took me 2 times to get stiffed to realize that it was my own immaturity and “lack” of understanding that caused me to think I had a better way.
After that, I began requiring 40% upfront, which covered materials and about one week of labor. On anything that was going to last longer than one week I required 10% at the end of each week until completed.
I also learned another valuable lesson: Never accept an “add-on” to the work without 1.) Getting an “add-on” agreement, and 2.) Not doing the work until the first agreement is taken care of with a final check. The only exceptions to #2 was when the work was more convenient FOR ME to do during the course of my orginal bid and agreement - and then I ALWAYS got this “add-on” amount paid in full before doing any of the work.
wheather the person was trying to “get me” or just didn’t understand that I had to schedule the job around other work, as well as make trips for supplies, and even time to stages of work to blend, didn’t matter as it wasn’t me job to check their heart, rather, to present myself as a professional.
I share this last part, because I have learned many things in the last 36 years of business ownership, and 31 years of working out my salvation, and that is, there are phases we go through where the devil can get more and more of his darts of accusation to hit targets within us - especially where the “housegold of faith” is concerned.
I have found myself not giving much to the reason another Christian may act a particuar way as much as I do to have a Paul approach (educate the person on how things are concerning my way of doing business); Barnabas approach (negoiating with the other individual who appears to have an understanding of business, etc.); and ‘yes’ even a Timothy approach (this is where a much older person wants things done a certain way - like in their day - and though it is more costly and my profit margin is almost non-existent, if I choose to accept the job, I do it with the attitude that I am going to have at least an extra day or two on top of everything else!)
Shalom,
March 19th, 2007 at 8:19 pm
I didn’t go through the above comments prior to adding me own, so I would like to extend this offer to all of you who are in business that utilize electronic processing.
My website is www.integrity4u.us
Tina, if you are still an accountant, I have an affiliate-type program I put together with the household of faith in mind - designed for ministries and business owners who help a lot of other businesses.
On my website you will have a short introduction video to provide you with an overview. I also encourage you to click on the Information Booth link and then go to Christian Corner for more good stuff!
Shalom
March 19th, 2007 at 10:33 pm
People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-
centered; Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish,
ulterior motives; Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some false friends
and some true enemies; Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you; Be
honest and frank anyway.
What you spend years building, someone could destroy
overnight; Build anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, they may be
jealous; Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, people will often forget
tomorrow; Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have, and it may never be
enough. Give the world the best you’ve got anyway.
You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and God!
March 20th, 2007 at 12:35 am
So frequently we think about our selfs and our current situation. I know because I am the same way. I recently attended a week long Quest where I heard over and over “it’s not about me” It is all about Father and his plan. Be deliberate and purposefully obediant and you will achieve the destiny that GOD has specifically for you.
P.S. I own a residential design firm and we are looking for contract CAD draftsmen.
March 20th, 2007 at 1:51 am
Hello. All I can say is I can relate. I have had a very diffiult 5 months after moving across teh country. The job I came with didn’t work out, I lost my apartment and have not found a traditional job.
But through this whole process I continued to study, read teh Word and pray declaring that I am victorious in Christ Jesus! I won’t say it’s been easy, but I will say I see the light at the end of the tunnel. I also had to relinquish control and other things in my business and personal life.
I have started a small business on no money at all and I have been landing one contrct after another. God has begun to open the floodgates. I can see how God is giving me so much in ways I did not expect.
Bottom line: Keep your eyes on Jesus. Praise Him and thank Him for the victory you are going to have.
March 20th, 2007 at 11:34 am
Keep on asking and it will be given you; keep on seeking and you will find; keep on knocking [reverently] and [the door] will be opened to you. Matthew 7:7 (Amplified Bible)
March 20th, 2007 at 12:36 pm
I was on the path of bankrupcy a year ago. I left a great position to break out on my own. I to found out that everyone didn’t have the same values as I did and before I new it I was starting to sink to there level for a short time to survive (so I tt group thought). But I had great Christian support that made me see my wrongs in the situations. Basically what I did wrong to get me in this predictament.
My biggest mistake was that never gave my business to God. I kept calling it MY BUSINESS and that was so wrong. God gave me this opportunity to run his business and I was not doing a great job. I almost fired myself, but I gave the business to God and I pray for his guidance every day on running it. I have a personal journal and a business journal that I use for my quite time.
Since this happen many miracles have happen, but the business has turned it self around. God has given me a second chance to run the business. I also prepared myself if he dicided he didn’t want me to be in business for myself anymore. I would let him decide not ME. I also lived by this verse all year long and I still use it frequently. Thank you for the opportunity to serve.
James 1 2-4
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
March 20th, 2007 at 1:54 pm
And we know that all things work togther for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 It may not seem like it now, but you have what you need to prove to the lord that you can be trusted with more. I am glad that you and your wife are going through this together, believe me it would be twice as hard if she was not in support of you right now.
March 20th, 2007 at 6:30 pm
Gerry, I have known you for years. You and your wife have been great inspirations for me.
I keep saying that if I can find a pearl in a 1.49cent can of discounted oysters just this month, God has gifts waiting for you also. I know it’s hard, you know I know it’s hard. Going from being a former SICU RN to disabled and fighting Social Security. God has provided for me, loaves of bread, friends who are there to help with groceries, free medications of the most expensive ones. All these things came just in time, just when “I Thought” time was running out.
That is why I can laugh at most everything now and I mean that. The mortgage company guy said “Show the letter we sent you to the social security attorney, that should make them go faster”. I started to giggle and said ” I almost commited suicide and they did not go any faster, Im sorry I don”t think your letter is going to do anything for them”.
I think it’s great everyone can quote scripture and before the accident I could also. God changed me, showed me how precious life is. The night I wanted to die, we had a converstion, I gave God 24hrs to make things right, no one knew but God and I. The next day I was talking to my Pastor, late in the afternoon and she appoligized to me that she was not really paying attention to me. She said there was an email regarding me in her mail box. Someone had wrote her and said they were offering to pay for the repairs to my car and had to be kept annonimous. I was amazed, and thought and then told her I would accept.
That night at the time that I should have taken my life I got the chills and could not get warm, I took the phone in bed with me. I thought I was going to die. I told God it was ok, if he took me then because God had provided for me in spite of the fact I threated him with my own life. I shook for a little while and then this overwhelming feeling of peace came over me. I knew that God would take care of me.
It was a tough year, that also was the year I got help. This year will be the year of fruition. Also for you Gerry. Trust me, I know what a cold house is, I keep the heat low and no air conditioning in the summer.
Bless you all for your wonderful words of encouragement. I will email you in private also.
Love
Annette
March 23rd, 2007 at 7:45 am
I wanted to say thank you to everyone who has commented with the words of encouragement and wisdom for this brother. I wanted also to say thank you to this brother also for reaching out. By reaching out you have provided a place of encouragement not only for yourself but others as well–myself included. You are not alone in the battle and I will be praying for you as well as others that are going through such a season.
I understand where you are. I am in a similar place. After much prayer and many confirmations, I left a lucrative sales positon 3 years ago to start a business. We are now facing the most difficult financial challenge of our lives, including possible bankruptcy. The Lord is sustaining us and there have been some great triumphs in faith. He has provided on many occassions. Those times have provided moments of great elation and thankfulness in the Lord. However, I have also felt such pain and anguish at times I thought I would take my own life. I am incredibly blessed to have the wife and daughter that I do and am grateful for that.
Again I am grateful to you for reaching out. I am grateful for the comments from those who are in the midst of the battle and for those who have pressed on and endured.
Here is a scripture that encourages me:
Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up soul. Psalm 143.8
March 23rd, 2007 at 8:10 am
I have always likened starting a business to being a farmer and having a farmer’s faith. A farmer has to decide what crops to grow, prepare the soil and plant the crops. All the while he is using the talents God gave him, and the soil God provided. The growing season requires faith. Faith that God will provide the rains needed to grow the crops that were planted. The farmer can do nothing without God’s intervention here.
The farmer also faces weed problems. He can put down the weed control to minimize their appearance, but some just get in and take over some small part of the crops. So during the growing cycle, the farmer is preparing his equipment for the harvest as well as praying for God’s provision of rain and sun and strong plants and everything else He created to come together.
At harvest time the farmer gathers what he has worked for and then has to sell it at the market. Again, he has to pray that he gets a fair price. And then a wise farmer does as it’s stated in Prov. 6:6…go to the ant.
For the new business, and even for seasoned ones as well, there are elements of work and elements of waiting on God’s provisions in whatever form to take shape so that there will be a harvest. Too often we meddle with God’s job instead of our own.
For all of those struggling, whether you are preparing, planting or praying for God’s provision, I pray that the Lord of the Harvest will bless your hands today with work and that you will discern and see the difference of what God’s work is versus what you have to do.
Perhaps today’s job is to just take off and thank Him for provisions that you don’t even see yet, or for those that He has so tangibly provided.
I would like to see this blog continue with reports of how God is breaking through for those who are struggling yet reaching out for support. It can only encourage others who continue to struggle.
God’s blessing to all
March 23rd, 2007 at 9:52 am
I too, and especially, would like to thank everyone who has posted to this blog. And you’re certainly welcome for my reaching out.
I struggle with wanting to prove myself, to myself, by myself - many of us do - but years ago, the Lord spoke to me that his body cannot function unless we are willing to be vulnerable to each other. Vulnerability is hard; especially in the world of business.
Thank you Michael for posting my situation. I am especially thankful for this site, and his instructional information. I am currently working on his “3 levels of Sales Acceleration” and absolutely loving it. While it is biblically based, the teaching doesn’t simply try to add scriupture to carnal knowledge or to come up with some “name it, claim it” aspect to sales. As he mentions in one of the teachings, “It’s not arrogance, but relationship.” I’m finding it to be practical yet out of this world. And I beleive that’s where God wants us to live.
It’s been an upward week since I contacted Michael, have been reading all the blogs, as well as corresponding with a few new friends. I plan to stay going in that direction. I’m not a new believer by any means, nor new to the hand of God, but I am new to business, and being self-employed. And new to walking in faith in this area of life. He seems to always be stretching us.
I recognize that I’ve allowed myself to become too isolated. When isolation occurs, it’s very easy to begin relating to the circumstances instead becuase you don’t have the benefit of relating to other people. I liken it to one of these quais-reality shows about survival - the main goal is to get to civilization as quickly as possible.
Thank you to those who have helped out tnagibly as well (the oil truck showed up somewhat unexpectedly and brought us some oil. Just having the chill of the house really has helped tremendously with morale.) I admit, we have been holding tightly to what we don’t have simply because we don’t have it, when God is asking us to let go. Indeed we have some mountains to move, but we are speaking to them in faith and they will move in God’s time.
For others who are also struiggling:
1. Don’t be afraid to reach out.
2. Hang in there also.
3. Surround yourself with not only Godly counsel, but also wise counsel - someone who is walking the path you want to walk. That person has most proabbly been through hell and back to get there and can be an incredible encouragement.
I know it’s not exactly scriptural but there’s a country song around these parts that goes, “If you’re going through hell keep on going, don’t slow down…
You might get out before the devil even knows you’re there.”
And when you’ve tried everything else, just throw your hands up, dump on a trusted brother in Christ, and let God work out the details - just be open to the advice.
May the God richly bless your time with faimly and friends this weekend.
March 23rd, 2007 at 10:17 am
P.S. I look forward to posting updates.
March 23rd, 2007 at 12:05 pm
Gerald, I like your “country” quote and also the quote from Psalm 143:8 sent in by John. I like to meditate on Isaiah 40:31-”Those that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up on wings of eagles, they shall run and not get weary, they shall walk and not get faint” (paraphrased).
We just have to continue to make our plans in pencil and if it is God’s plan for us then He will pen it in and if not He will erease it and we start over. But bottom line is that we have to continue to listen to God’s word and be obedient to do His will.
I look forward to reading words of encouragements and updates on our various situations.
March 26th, 2007 at 6:18 pm
The lesson I had to learn was that it was my fear of the client turning me down if I asked for money up front or if I priced my services too high. What I got in return for my unrecognized fear, was a lot of work without making the profit I so richly deserved and eventually declaring bankruptcy. I won’t say the fear doesn’t crop up any more, but I no longer give into it by praying for God’s continual guidance, wisdom and peace. Peace and wisdom and God’s blessings to you my friend in Christ.
March 28th, 2007 at 7:40 am
I know how you must feel. I am in the same boat. As a cufflink designer, I have learned a harsh leson over the past four years, and that is people wil not pay you and respect you in your trade if you do not demand cash and carry.
We would like to think differently, but it just doesn’t happen that. So be firm, even if you feel you might lose a sale, at least you will not lose your merchandice and money.
I have started an internet business that will solve some of my problems, and I am offering another product that will be available worldwide along with an eCommerce portal.
I sugest, that if you can in any way, shift your product and service offerings to some kind of automatic marketing effort and decrease the face to face selling.
You can combine the two markets to maintain that good old customer relations, while protecting yourself from the linear income trap, rip offs from customers, poor time management. Money has to litlte value, time is to limited, and life is to short to not consider network, internet marketing in our marketing plan.
Life is for living, not working. God Bless
April 17th, 2007 at 4:59 pm
Just wanted to take a minute to post an update.
While we’re not “out of the weeds” yet, the encouragement alone was enough to get us out of ourselves and to begin re-focusing on what God was and is saying. My wife and I praying more together - that’s always a plus. And I’ve begun cold calling, something I’ve actually never minded doing, but failed to follow through on because of circumstances.
I would strongly suggest Michael’s 3 levels of sales acceleration… My wife and I listened to the series together, and we were both encouraged by it.
Lastly (and first) is prayer. It’s not that we weren’t praying, but we weren’t praying effectively because we couldn’t see beyond the immediate. God loves each of us. He makes no promises of success all the time, but he does promise to give us peace. With that peace, comes rational thought and an abundance of strenght to get through the tough times, not to mention the ability to live in the moment.