In the heart of a bustling city, there lived a godly businessman named Matthew. He was known not only for his sharp business acumen but also for his unwavering faith in God. Matthew owned a small manufacturing company that he had built from the ground up. Despite his success, he often faced challenges that tested his patience and endurance.
One year, Matthew’s business encountered a severe downturn. A key supplier went bankrupt, leaving him without essential materials, and several major clients defaulted on payments. With mounting debts and a dwindling cash flow, Matthew found himself at a crossroads. Many advised him to take drastic measures, but Matthew chose a different path. He turned to prayer and sought God’s guidance, remembering the words of Psalm 27:14, “Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.”
Each morning, before heading to his office, Matthew would spend time in prayer, asking for wisdom and strength. He knew that true endurance and longsuffering came from relying on God’s timing and not his own. James 1:3-4 resonated deeply with him: “Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”
Weeks turned into months, and the situation grew more dire. Employees were worried about their jobs, and creditors were calling daily. Despite the pressure, Matthew maintained his calm demeanor and continued to seek God’s direction. He found solace in Isaiah 40:31, “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”
One particularly stressful day, Matthew received an unexpected phone call. It was from a potential investor who had heard about his company and was interested in a partnership. Skeptical but hopeful, Matthew prayed for discernment and decided to meet with the investor. To his amazement, the investor offered a lifeline that would not only resolve the current crisis but also provide the resources needed for future growth.
Matthew knew this was God’s hand at work. He was reminded of Romans 5:3-4, “And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope.” His patience and endurance had paid off, and he felt a renewed sense of hope and purpose.
With the new partnership in place, Matthew’s business began to recover. He was able to pay off his debts, secure new clients, and even expand his operations. Throughout this journey, he never forgot the lessons he had learned about waiting on God and enduring trials with faith.
Matthew’s story became an inspiration to his employees and the community. He often shared his testimony, quoting Galatians 6:9, “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” His faith and perseverance had not only saved his business but had also strengthened his relationship with God.
Years later, looking back on those challenging times, Matthew realized that God had used those trials to mold him into a stronger, more faithful servant. He continued to trust in God’s timing and provisions, knowing that through every storm, God was with him, guiding and sustaining him.
Lazarevic Ministries 