Part 5: So What Now? Discerning, Healing, and Moving Forward
If you’ve made it this far in the series, I just want to say: thank you. Thank you for your thoughtfulness, your discernment, and your heart to seek truth—even when it’s uncomfortable. This isn’t an easy conversation, especially if you’ve been personally involved in an MLM, or hurt by one, or are still trying to sort out how you feel.
So in this final part, we’re slowing down. Taking a breath. Making space for healing, discernment, and grace—for yourself and others. Because it’s one thing to recognize the problems with MLMs. It’s another to ask, what now?
Let’s talk about five groups of people who might be reading this—and offer some gentle, gospel-rooted encouragement for each one.
For the Person Feeling Conflicted
Maybe you’re in an MLM right now—and something in your gut just doesn’t feel right. You were excited. Maybe even hopeful. You wanted flexibility, income, purpose, and community. Perhaps you felt …called?
And now… you’re not sure. Honestly… you’re not sure you ever were sure… something in your gut always felt like something was “off” about this…
Can I tell you something with all the compassion in the world?
You’re not crazy.
You’re not weak.
You’re not a bad person.
You’re not a “sellout.”
You may just be waking up to something. And that awakening can feel confusing.
So here are some questions to gently sit with:
Do I have peace about how this impacts my finances… and my friendships?
Is this bearing good fruit in my life?
God is not the author of confusion, manipulation, or fear. If the fruit of this model is anxiety, pressure, or guilt—it’s okay to pay attention to that. He may be inviting you into something deeper.
For the Person Who Walked Away
Maybe you’ve already stepped away from an MLM.
Maybe you’ve been out for years, but you still feel a mix of shame and confusion when you think about it.
Let me remind you:
Walking away from something doesn’t mean you failed.
It doesn’t mean you’re flaky.
It doesn’t mean you “gave up.”
It may simply mean that you saw something more clearly—and had the courage to choose integrity over image.
You’re allowed to grieve what was lost.
You’re allowed to untangle what was true and what wasn’t.
You’re allowed to heal.
Your identity is not in what you sold, how many people followed you, or what rank you reached. You are a beloved child of God. Full stop. 🤍
For Those Discerning Next Steps
If you’re not sure what to do next—whether you’re in, out, or somewhere in between—here are a few simple questions to prayerfully reflect on:
Am I being honest about what this costs me—financially, emotionally, relationally?
Do I feel peace about how this business intersects with my faith?
Am I building something that frees others… or pressures them into something that isn’t meant for them?
Am I holding this work with open hands before the Lord?
You don’t need to have all the answers today. But if these questions stir something in you, pause and pay attention. Invite God into that space. He is kind and gentle. He doesn’t rush your process. He just wants your heart.
For the Dreamers
You know what I’ve noticed? MLMs often attract some of the most creative, driven, encouraging, and visionary people—those who believe deeply in others and want their lives to make a meaningful impact. People who long for freedom and purpose.
If that sounds like you, I want to say: I see you, and I honor your passion.
At the same time, it’s worth pausing to ask: How are those gifts and callings being nurtured? Are they flourishing in ways that bring you peace, joy, and sustainable fruit? Sometimes, our paths shift—not because where we are is wrong, but because God’s leading us into new seasons that look different than what we expected.
You don’t need an upline to mentor you or a bonus plan to define your purpose. Your calling is already vibrant in Christ and there are countless ways to live it out that align with your values and bring life.
This isn’t about shrinking dreams or giving up—it’s about listening for where God is inviting you to flourish, in freedom and integrity.
For Those Wanting to Set Grace-Filled Boundaries
Now let’s talk to another group—the ones who have a bad taste in their mouth. The ones who feel awkward every time someone “slides into their DMs” or starts a conversation with “Hey- I’d love to catch up!”
If that’s you, here’s your permission slip:
You’re allowed to set boundaries.
You’re allowed to say no.
You’re allowed to not participate—without feeling guilty.
Boundaries aren’t unkind. They’re how we protect connection and preserve dignity on both sides.
If you’ve found yourself in this spot, you might simply say the same thing I do:
“Hey, I’m so glad this has been meaningful for you. But I have personal convictions about MLMs and I’ve chosen not to purchase products sold through them. I care about you, but this just isn’t a fit for me.”
No shame. No arguing. No need to justify.
That kind of clarity is actually kind. It removes the confusion and helps both of you stay honest and safe in the relationship.
You can love your friend and not support something they do that you have legitimate concerns will negatively impact your freindship.
You can stay connected without being a part of their “team”
You can be gracious by being impartial.
Final Reflection
Wherever you land in this conversation—whether you’re still in an MLM, just left, or have no plans to ever join one—I hope you walk away with this:
You are not defined by your business.
You are not measured by your income.
You are not valuable because of what you sell.
You are valuable because you are loved.
And friend—that can never be bought.
Next Steps:
If this series stirred something in you, don’t rush past it. Take time to reflect, pray, and talk with someone you trust. Whether you’re sorting through grief, rediscovering your dreams, or trying to love someone well from a distance, God is faithful to lead you into truth—with both courage and compassion. 🤍
