I Was Caught In A Vice

But Peter and the other Apostles answered and said ' We ought to obey God rather than man." Acts 4:29

As a manager years ago for an insurance company I was placed in a tough position. For the year end my district was charging hard to be the number one district for the company. I had a associate that had written a large amount of business. But she had gotten a late start and nothing she could do would allow her to qualify for the free trip trip to the Bahamas. Yet, if we pushed
to get all of her business out we would be assured the coveted year end award. Satan was working overtime as it meant a bonus check to my manager of $ 8,000 and $ 5,000 to me.

My manager called me into his office and gave me a directive. " Do what ever it takes to get Michelle to get her business paid. I don't care if you have to send her to Vegas for the weekend just get it done." I argued that Michelle had nothing to gain. I stated I would much rather see her start off strong for the new year. He wasn't happy with my attitude and he told me in no uncertain terms.

I decided to have a meeting with Michelle. When she entered my office I could sense the heaviness she was carrying. I knew she had heard all the accusations like " Michelle is not being a team player." and " If we loose it will be all Michelle's fault."

Being that Michelle was also a Christian I could speak on a Spiritual level. I started my meeting by making things perfectly clear that I wanted to leave it in God's hands. If God wanted me to be district manager of the year then he would work out the details. I could see the pressure lifted from her body as soon as I spoke those words. Her saddened face was erased and a smile appeared.

Sure enough, God worked it out so just enough of Michelle's business came out so we could qualify for the award. Just before I gave my acceptance speech I thought of Michelle and I knew I had done the right thing.

The following year because she had gotten a fast start Michelle was named woman of the year. She was flown to the home office. Put up in the penthouse suite and treated like royalty. Her speech told our story and she was given a standing ovation.

As Christians we operate under a different set of rules. Our guide is not man but the wonderful name of Jesus. If He wants to raise us up He will. If He wants us to receive glories it will get done. Only because of Christ and only when we do it His way.

May we always be strong enough
to do it God's way.
No matter what the circumstances,
No matter what people say.

His ways might not make much sense
to those that don't know Christ.
But it really should not matter
for He is the ruler of our life.