Business Journal
  
 Mission Control to God, Come In?  
Leading Solutions for Leading Business  
from a Christian Perspective  
 

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Mission Control to God, Come In?
By Michelle Sugerman

Is He too busy?  Are your matters too small for an infinite God?  Why, when you pray so fervently, is God so quiet or apparently distant?  It’s not just you; even kings have the same problem!  Most notably, King David, who composed lyrics in order to properly express his frustration and anger about God’s silence.  It was never a normal day at the office for David; he had a lot to talk to God about. A day at the office can be complicated for us, too.  But why is God so quiet when we seem to need him most?  Sometimes it is because:
  1. We have separated ourselves from God with sin.  It is important to be aware of habitual transgressions.  It is the ones we are most comfortable with that cause the most problems (like subtle pride or selfishness).  Confess these often and ask God to help you reform.

  2. It takes time for hearts to change.  It may be your attitude or that of another staff member that needs to be softened or refocused.  This can take days or years – but it doesn’t mean God has turned away.  Remember, He promises all that we ask of Him, if we ask according to His will.  (1 John 5:14)

  3. It takes time for circumstances to change.  Consider the economy or market drivers, for example, both can change slowly.  Job searches take time, too, as well as new business relationships.  Our impatience does not speed up this process!

  4. Our faith is being strengthened.  Often, when God is quiet, I am glad I noticed the difference.  But, it doesn’t make it any easier.  Silence from God challenges us with a decision: to believe or not believe that “God goes with [us]; he will never leave [us] nor forsake [us].” (Deuteronomy 31:6)

  5. We haven’t been in touch either.  It is like wondering why we haven’t heard from a business associate and then realizing WE could have written, emailed, phoned, or texted, too – but didn’t.  God has an ‘open door policy’.  Use it!

  6. We are learning and growing wiser.  Tough experiences serve to increase our business knowledge and our self-knowledge.  Some lessons are best learned through OJT (On the Job Training).  Unfortunately, lessons are best remembered when they are acquired through a little pain.

  7. We aren’t Mission Control.  He is.  This realization always startles me because I forget this on a daily basis!  The day we made the commitment to follow Christ, we had to leave “my way, right now” behind and trust in Him.
King David had it rough (running for his life and the death of four sons) and he made some big mistakes (adultery and murder).  But, God didn’t forsake him either.  He was elevated as a leader: appointed a high rank in King Saul’s army, king of Judah, and then king over all Israel.   He was promised an everlasting dynasty (2 Samuel 7) and the extension of his kingdom (2 Samuel 8).  King David concluded one of his prayers by saying: “O Sovereign LORD, you are God! Your words are trustworthy, and you have promised these good things to your servant.” (2 Samuel 7:28)

So, the next time you shout “mission control to God, come in?” consider the following prayer instead: “Lord, I believe you are near.  I believe you hear me and have my best interest in mind.  Grant me patience and comfort in your silence. Guide my focus towards you and your eternal kingdom.”
 
Michelle Sugerman is a business consultant and leadership coach offering a complete system for Christian business leaders, owners, and their secular teams. She combines 16 years in the corporate world with Christian principles to empower clients, readers, and audiences throughout the United States.  You are invited to inquire directly about these opportunities by email or by phone at (303) 993-4881.

  
Leadership in Action Luncheon
Business and the Church
 
DATE: Friday, November 13, 2009
 
TIME: 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
 
LOCATION: Fireside Room at Cherry Hills Community Church (3900 E Grace Blvd, Highlands Ranch, CO)
 
COST: $10.00 (includes meal and materials)
 
Leadership in Action is dedicated to building a better kingdom of Christian leaders who are growing spiritually in all facets of their lives.  Join us as we focus on Business and the Church in today’s businesses, churches and non-profit organizations.

Based on the material presented at the recent Leadership Summit, participants will collaborate with other leaders in the community and plan to take action on important leadership principles.  (Attendance of CHCC or Leadership Summit is not required.)
 
 
 
Words of Wisdom
 
Forsake not God till you find a better master. - Scottish Proverb

 
Synergy Group Guide Sample Questions 
  • Is there ever a time when, as a leader, you need to be quiet or ‘distant’ with your team or clients?
  • Describe a time when God seemed far away?  What did you learn from that experience?
Request a complimentary Synergy Group Guide for this Business Journal.
 
 
 
 
 
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