Trust God With Your Business and He Will Make a Way
Jean Makesh
Chief Executive Officer at The Lantern
Running a business often involves highs and lows, but what happens when you face a situation so devastating that all human strategies fail? In a recent episode of Anchoring Hope, David hosted Jean Makesh, a successful entrepreneur and CEO of The Lantern Group, who shared his inspiring journey of rediscovering his faith during a business crisis. Jean’s testimony highlights how trusting God can lead to breakthrough, restoration, and a deeper understanding of His plans.
The Unseen Hand of God in Our Lives
Jean’s journey began with humble origins in India, where he grew up in a middle-class family. As a young man, he moved to the United States, eventually building a thriving career in senior housing and development. However, the path he walked wasn’t one he planned. Jean studied occupational therapy, hoping to specialize in orthopedic medicine, but ended up working in a nursing home out of necessity.
“At first, I didn’t see it as my calling,” Jean shared. “But the older adults I worked with fell in love with me, and that’s when I realized God had redirected my path for a purpose.”
Jean’s testimony reminds us that God’s plans often differ from our own. He prepares blessings for us even when we can’t yet see them. As Jean reflected, “The home I live in today is the realization of things I dreamed of as a child. God was preparing it for me all along.”
The Role of Faith in Business
Despite years of success, Jean faced a catastrophic financial crisis in November that left him questioning everything. “I was good at what I did,” Jean admitted. “But suddenly, I found myself unable to explain or fix what was happening.”
It was during this time of brokenness that Jean turned to God more deeply. Through prayer, worship, and Bible study, he realized that his previous understanding of God had been incomplete.
“I used to see my business as my own effort,” Jean said. “But now I know that it’s God’s. He has the ultimate authority over everything, and my role is to trust Him and follow His will.”
Jean’s experience illustrates the importance of surrendering control to God, especially in times of uncertainty. When we place our trust in Him, He opens doors we never thought possible.
Embracing the Role of Priesthood
One of the most profound shifts in Jean’s life was stepping into the role of spiritual leader for his family. As he read the Bible and deepened his faith, he discovered the importance of being a priest in his household.
“Abraham was chosen by God not only for his faith but because he would teach Godly ways to his children,” Jean shared. “I realized I wasn’t leading my family spiritually the way I should. That has changed in the last six months.”
Jean now leads his family in Bible study, prayer, and worship, taking an active role in nurturing their faith. He emphasized that every Christian, especially men, is called to be a priest in their homes.
God’s Discipline as an Act of Love
The financial crisis Jean faced wasn’t a punishment but an act of God’s love. “I realized I had become a slave to my business,” Jean said. “God had to take it away to show me that my true worth isn’t in wealth or success but in Him.”
Jean’s testimony highlights the transformative power of God’s discipline. When we face trials, it’s an opportunity to grow in faith, humility, and reliance on Him.
“It’s amazing how God works,” Jean reflected. “Even when I felt I was losing everything, He was there, opening new doors and providing in ways I couldn’t imagine.”
Faith as the Foundation of Prosperity
Jean also discovered a deeper understanding of prosperity and tithing. “Prosperity isn’t just about wealth,” Jean explained. “It’s about being in fellowship with God, trusting Him, and walking in His will.”
He shared insights from Scripture, emphasizing that God blesses those who have faith and trust in Him. “When you’re part of His priesthood, nations will bless you,” Jean said. “God becomes your possession, and there’s no greater prosperity than that.”
Tithing, Jean added, is less about the amount and more about the heart. “It’s a way to acknowledge that everything we have comes from God,” he said. “When we give, we’re declaring our dependence on Him and separating ourselves from the greed of the flesh.”
Letting Go and Trusting God’s Timing
Jean’s journey mirrors the story of Abraham, who trusted God even when asked to sacrifice his son Isaac. “Sometimes we hold on so tightly to what we think is ours,” Jean said. “But when we let go and trust God, He provides in ways beyond our imagination.”
In Jean’s case, surrendering his business to God led to unexpected breakthroughs, including a pivotal moment in a legal case where God’s favor became evident.
“When you’re at the end of yourself, that’s where God shows up,” Jean said. “He’s always working, even when we can’t see it.”
The Call to Reflect God’s Love
Jean concluded the episode by emphasizing the importance of reflecting God’s love in all we do. “Nothing can separate us from His love,” Jean said. “Our job is to trust Him, love Him unconditionally, and let His light shine through us.”
For Jean, this newfound understanding of God’s love has transformed not only his business but his entire life.
Conclusion
Jean Makesh’s testimony reminds us that trusting God with our businesses—and every aspect of our lives—opens the door for His plans to unfold. Whether we’re facing financial challenges, personal struggles, or questions about our purpose, God is faithful to guide us.
As Jean beautifully put it, “When you’re in God, and He’s in you, nothing is too big or too small for Him. All you have to do is trust.”
Written by Dhan Ababa
“God loves us so much that He won’t let us stay lost. He’ll do whatever it takes to bring us back to Him.”
