About the Podcast
The podcast 'Foundation Hangout' hosted by Pastor Brian features guests Mark and Keri Blanton discussing their small business, 'Microscope Solutions,' and the role of faith in overcoming business challenges. The episode emphasizes the importance of relying on God for peace and success, especially during difficult times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key Takeaways
- (00:00) The speaker reflects on the importance of faith and reliance on God, emphasizing that hard work alone isn't enough for success in small business.
- (01:06) Pastor Brian introduces guests Mark and Keri Blanton, who discuss their business 'Microscope Solutions,' which involves servicing, repairing, and selling microscopes.
- (01:39) The episode features scripture from Philippians 4:7 and Romans 8:34-37, highlighting God's peace and love amidst struggles.
- (03:26) Mark and Keri recount their experience of taking a risk by investing in a dealership, which led to unexpected restrictions and unmet sales goals.
- (06:13) Keri shares her feelings of loss regarding her role as a stay-at-home mom while trying to support the business financially.
- (07:42) Mark emphasizes the importance of leaning on Philippians 4:7 for peace during their struggles, highlighting the need for emotional and mental refreshment.
- (08:57) The speaker describes the struggle of relying on hard work alone for success in small business, highlighting that true success comes from a relationship with God rather than personal abilities or talents.
- (09:38) They stress the importance of prioritizing their relationship with God over business concerns, acknowledging that while the business was a gift, their spiritual connection must come first.
- (10:23) The speaker shares that many have asked how they manage challenges, attributing their resilience to God, which they describe as a peace that cannot be explained.
- (11:09) They discuss the discomfort and pain of facing trials, but emphasize that after the storm passes, one can see the valuable lessons learned and the restoration of relationships with God and family.
- (12:12) The true miracle was not financial restoration but the strengthening of their faith and relationships, learning from failures, and becoming stronger individuals.
- (12:40) They acknowledge the inherent risks of being self-employed, where there is no safety net, and how this situation forced them to rely on God for guidance and favor.
- (13:44) The speaker recalls a period of rebuilding their business after a setback, which was encouraging and reaffirmed their capabilities as salespeople.
- (14:45) They mention a new agreement with another dealer that allowed them to thrive despite previous challenges, attributing their success to the trust placed in them by the new partner.
- (15:34) The conversation shifts to the importance of prioritizing God, which they believe led to positive changes in their business.
- (15:46) They reflect on the challenges posed by COVID-19, which severely impacted their business operations and income.
- (16:27) The speaker describes the devastating effects of the pandemic on their business, noting a significant drop in revenue and the need to seek government assistance.
- (17:14) They recount personal sacrifices made during this time, including withdrawing from retirement savings to manage bills, while expressing faith that God had prepared them for these challenges.
- (17:53) The speaker expresses that the challenges faced during the pandemic were emotionally painful, particularly for small businesses. They highlight the character and hard work of small business owners, contrasting their struggles with the profits of large corporations that remained open.
- (18:24) The speaker questions the logic behind allowing big box stores to operate while small businesses were forced to close, emphasizing their frustration with the lack of opportunity to adapt to restrictions.
- (19:03) They reflect on the heartbreak of witnessing multi-generational businesses shut down after years of hard work and sacrifice, attributing their survival to divine grace and expressing gratitude for the lessons learned during tough times.
- (20:25) The speaker emphasizes their sense of obligation to manage their business responsibly, viewing it as a means to bless others rather than the center of their lives. They prioritize family and faith over business success.
- (21:04) They share how they pray for sales that enable them to help others, recounting a tradition of giving gifts to strangers during Christmas, which brought joy to their children.
- (21:48) The speaker describes the challenges of operating during COVID, noting that it was just them managing the business initially. However, they mention improvements post-COVID and the addition of their son Ryan to the team.
- (22:36) Ryan, who has been learning the business since childhood, has become proficient in handling microscopes and is now capable of managing significant tasks independently, earning positive feedback from customers.
- (24:20) The speaker reflects on a long-term bid they worked on for three years, finally receiving a purchase order, attributing the timing to divine intervention and the significance of the number three in biblical numerology.
- (26:06) They acknowledge the ups and downs of their journey, emphasizing faith in God’s support through difficult times and the universal nature of financial struggles, encouraging others to lean on their faith during storms.
- (27:00) The speaker concludes by highlighting that despite the challenges faced during the pandemic, their business survived due to divine will, reinforcing their belief in God's provision.
- (27:00) The speaker highlights the importance of prioritizing God in business and life, noting that when people focus on God, they often see positive outcomes. They draw parallels to biblical stories, particularly the choices faced by Israel, emphasizing obedience and blessings.
- (28:03) The speaker expresses hope that the stories shared will inspire small business owners to trust in God during tough times, reinforcing the idea that faith can lead to support and provision.
- (29:00) The conversation shifts to final thoughts, with a focus on giving glory to God. The speakers emphasize that their skills are not the reason for their success; rather, it is God's will that guides them.
- (30:01) The speakers express gratitude for the opportunity to share their experiences, highlighting the importance of witnessing to others about God's role in their business.
- (30:23) A prayer is offered, thanking God for His blessings and guidance, and asking for continued support and favor for the business owners. The prayer emphasizes the need for humility and obedience to God's will.
- (32:35) The speaker thanks the audience for listening and encourages them to reach out with their stories or struggles, inviting engagement and connection.
- (34:02) The speaker transitions to a message about establishing a relationship with Jesus, explaining the necessity of repentance and faith in overcoming sin. They emphasize that salvation is not based on works but on faith in Christ alone, encouraging listeners to seek a personal relationship with God.
- (34:49) The speaker emphasizes that salvation comes through faith in Christ alone.
- (34:51) Jesus' call to action is to 'repent and believe the gospel.'
- (34:54) The speaker acknowledges that some may not know how to repent and believe.
- (34:56) Instead of a formal prayer, the speaker shares a personal example of repentance.
- (35:03) The speaker's prayer includes acknowledging sinfulness and the desire to avoid eternal punishment.
- (35:10) The speaker expresses a wish to live for God and serve Him.
- (35:19) A plea for forgiveness and help in turning away from sin is made.
- (35:30) The speaker asks for Jesus to be the Lord and Savior of their life.
- (35:37) The prayer concludes with gratitude and love for Jesus.
- (35:47) The speaker encourages others to express their own thoughts in their own words.
- (35:51) Those feeling called to repent and trust in Christ are invited to reach out.
- (35:59) Contact information is provided for sharing testimonies of salvation.
- (36:06) The speaker thanks the audience for their engagement.
Reach Mark and Keri at
markb@microscopesolutions.com
our website
https://thefoundationhangout.transistor.fm/
Teepublic store
http://tee.pub/lic/thefoundationhangout
Redbubble store
PastorBrianB.redbubble.com
