When you are in a quandary, where do you turn for wisdom?

Don followed Jesus’ model in teaching by example. He led with faith first in family, friendships and business, investing time in the lives of others. When he mentored men, Don followed the servant leadership principles outlined in the Bible by the Apostle Paul in 1 and 2 Timothy. 

One of Don’s mentees, Jack, agreed to meet with him once a week. Two years before their meetings commenced, Jack’s father died, and he inherited the family business. 

Right before the fourth meeting with Don, Jack received a letter from the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE). It stated that the company did not pay unemployment taxes during the 30 years his father ran the business. 

The Denver state office scheduled an employee to audit the company. Distressed, Jack arrived at Don’s office and showed him the letter. 

“There are 30 years of records in lots of boxes. If I pay all these back taxes with interest, the cost will bankrupt the company,” Jack said. “Whatever you tell me to do, I’ll do it!” 

With Don’s business and accounting experience, Jack was confident he’d receive a sensible answer. 

“Trust the Lord and be as prepared as you can with the boxes in a semblance of order,” Don advised. At the close of their meeting, both men prayed for the business and audit appointment. 

On the date, the auditor was curt and mean-spirited. Jack cooperated through the grueling process as she searched through the boxes and asked questions. 

Then she received a phone call. As Jack waited for the audit to continue, he busied himself by opening the single letter file box next to him. Shuffling among the letters, he found some correspondence from the CDLE office’s chief dated at the inception of the business. The letter stated that the company was exempt from collecting unemployment taxes. 

When the auditor’s call finished, Jack handed her the letter. Flabbergasted and skeptical, she phoned her Denver office boss, read him the letter and briefly consulted with him before delivering her verdict.

“As per the letter, your business is excused from collecting the tax. This meeting is over. I’m out of here!” she said, as relief flooded Jack’s heart.

1 Timothy 4:9-10 says, “This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance. That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe.” 

By praying and following Don’s wisdom, Jack trusted God for his company’s outcome.

Whom do you trust and follow, and why?

When you have valuable experience or talent in an area, such as your faith journey or business acumen, how do you give it back to others?

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