The Lesson Of The Elevator

The Lesson of the Elevator

Starting at an entry-level job at a Fortune 500 Bank, earning $28,500, was the beginning of my professional journey. I received my first promotion in sales, where the top earners were making around $50,000.

During one of my early interviews, a manager asked how important money was to me on a scale of 1-10. I confidently answered a “9” or “10.” And let me tell you, there’s no shame in that answer. Making money is not a sin; it’s a blessing when handled responsibly. Later, he told me that one of the reasons he hired me was because of how I responded to that question.

Back in those days, we worked in cubicles.

One afternoon, during a slow period, a coworker started making fun of me—cracking jokes, and trying to get under my skin. I wasn’t in the mood to play along, and after enough poking, I finally responded with something that hit home for him. He didn’t like it and got up, moving towards me like he wanted to fight.

Now, let me be clear, Pastor ain’t no punk.

I got up and said, ‘Let’s settle this outside,’ as I made my way to the elevator.

But just before I could take things further, another coworker ran over and blocked my way. He said something that would ultimately save me: “If you leave right now, you’re going to get fired. I’m not letting you lose your job like that.”

I thank God for him because staying off that elevator eventually led to another promotion, allowing me to earn over $100,000 per year.

Afterward, word of the incident got back to management. They interviewed several people who all confirmed that my coworker was the one who instigated the situation. He got written up, while I was praised for holding back.

One of my managers then gave me some crucial advice: “You’re not here to make friends. You’re here to make money. Don’t let anyone stop you from doing that.”

Those words stuck with me.

I went to church that following Sunday and shared what happened with a friend. He gave me an even deeper perspective.

He reminded me that our fight isn’t against flesh and blood but against unseen forces. The real battle wasn’t between me and my coworker; it was a spiritual attack designed to knock me off course. He encouraged me by saying, “Fight the devil, not the person.”

This experience taught me a valuable lesson that I want to share with you:

Stop fighting against your family, spouse, coworkers, or even those with different political views.

Our true enemy isn’t other people.

Your battle is spiritual, against invisible forces that try to disrupt your peace, joy, and progress.

The good news is that, through Christ, you have authority over that defeated foe.

Don’t get sidetracked by those who try to provoke you. Remember that your fight isn’t with them but with the spiritual forces working behind the scenes.

Stay focused on your purpose, and let God handle the rest.

In what ways has the devil tried to distract you? Share your testimony with me.