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We need to be prepared to respond correctly when without warning we face some type of moral decision in the workplace. Fran finds herself in that spot as we conclude this episode today of Fran and Jesus on the Job.

Jim Clark, a Vice President in her firm, is working with her on a substantial new prospect, and he has insisted on lunch with her alone. In spite of her efforts to keep the conversation totally business-oriented, Jim has made it clear that he’s hoping for more than a working relationship with Fran. She turns to Jesus, who is with her all the time, and he says:

“Take your stand right now, Fran, before it goes any further. Let him know you are not available for anything but business.”

“Lord, I don’t think it would be wise to say that at our first meeting. Don’t worry – I’ll tell him if it goes any further…” Fran replies.

“Can there be any mistaking his innuendoes, Fran?” Jesus asks.

“Well, no, but if I offend him, I could lose this account. What would Marilyn think?” This is very touchy. Fran feels torn between what to do.

“Do what’s right, Fran,” Jesus says, “and I’ll take care of you. Do you trust me, Fran?” Jesus puts the question to her without any frills. And in that moment, as she looks in his eyes, she knows what she has to do. “Yes,” she answers, “I trust you – and I will obey you. Please help me.”

“Look, Fran,” Jim says, “it doesn’t have to be all hard work, you know. After all, you’re single and I’m separated from my wife…no reason we can’t – eh – enjoy each other’s company, right Fran?”

Even though Fran knows how wrong this is, she’s still vulnerable to Jim’s charm and good looks – and his position. She whispers to the Lord, “Please, help.”

And then she is amazed at the words that come out of her mouth. “Yes, Jim, I’m single, but that doesn’t mean I’m available for a relationship with you – or anyone else -beyond our business association.”

Jim is obviously shocked, but Fran continues,  “You’re a smart man and I wanted to work with you on this account because I know I can learn a lot from you. But one thing I will never do is compromise my personal standards of conduct. If you think I’m the best account rep for this job, fine. But beyond that, you’re barking up the wrong tree.” Fran looks Jim straight in the eye.

Her words hang heavy between them. It seems like an eternity before Jim says anything, and when he does, his face is red. “Fran, I was not suggesting anything other than a working relationship.”

Jim stammers a bit more, and Fran knows he got her message. She also knows it could do her career great damage, but that doesn’t matter to her. She has that incredible peace that comes from obeying the Lord and doing the right thing. And she really does believe that whatever happens, Jesus will take care of her.