Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:4)
By Andrew Mortland
My manager reached out and asked me to take on a particularly challenging financial case. Unlike the typical few months of review, this case would require five years to be analyzed. Although it was originally assigned to a newer teammate, leadership decided it needed a more experienced hand due to its complexity.
I hesitated. The case would require a mountain of work and review. My first thought was, “Why me?” I was already stretched thin and just keeping my head above water. Diving into something so massive felt overwhelming. I could easily decline. My manager understood the workload we were all under and would have found someone else to help.
In spite of my hesitation, it didn’t feel right to leave my team hanging. I voiced my concerns, and while my manager didn’t pressure me, he did encourage me. He said he wouldn’t have asked if he didn’t believe I could succeed.
That conversation, along with a quiet prayer whispered at my desk, “Lord, help me. Make me fast and accurate,” gave me the strength to say “yes.”
I started working through the case, and to my surprise, it came together more smoothly than expected. God granted me clarity, focus, and peace—all things I desperately needed. When I submitted the finished review and report, my manager gave me great feedback and sincere gratitude. Since then, he’s come to me more often, not just with difficult cases, but with encouragement and appreciation as well.
That experience reminded me that the challenges we face, especially the ones that feel overwhelming, are often invitations. God used this one to build trust, encourage my team, and deepen my confidence in him.
Pray
Lord, give me a heart eager to embrace your invitations with willingness to serve you and others.
Reflect
Where have you been surprised by God’s faithfulness during difficult times? How have you grown?
Discuss
What challenges are you facing now at work? How can you foster a “holy moment” of growth?
Andrew Mortland is part of the Hilltop Small Group. He lives in Savage, MN, with his wife, Jana, their two dogs, Oliver and Penny, and cat, Cheddar.