Yesterday I connected with a long-time friend who had just been told that his job was being cut. It was clearly a financial decision by his employer—but that doesn’t make the reality of losing one’s job any easier. He is a man of integrity and a hard worker. Aren’t those qualities that God recognizes and rewards with blessings? Yes, but not always in the way we expect.
(Jon Warren/World Vision)
I reminded my friend that twice in my career I was let go from jobs. Both times were difficult, but also seasons of spiritual growth and anticipation around what God had in store for me next. In those dark moments, I could not have know that God would lead me to the place I find myself today—serving in a position that fits my gifts and passions. Those tough times were truly blessings that I never could have imagined.
I’m praying for my friend, that God will direct him to a new place of service and joy.
What about you? How have you seen God turn your dark moments into something glorious and unexpected?
YES to everything Tom said. I lost my corporate job in 2001. I’ve been working for a non-profit serving at-risk children in the schools for over 8 years! It so fits my passion and skills. I couldn’t dream or imagine. The job loss was devastating, but waiting on God brought growth and blessings, and honor to Him.
There is strong spiritual truth in this article. God’s promises assure believers that He intends to work all things for good and that He will prosper us – just not always in the ways our limited understanding suggests. (Romans 8 and Jeremiah 29)
I was let go from a significant position in 2009 after 29 years of dedicated and honest service to my employer. Yet from the very beginning, I felt God’s clear assurance that he allowed that because He wanted my service for another more significant purpose. If you are in a dark spot, join in small groups, and other organizations where you can devote time to reflection, reading God’s word and prayer. Ask God to show you what He has for you, and then be willing to really follow where He leads, even if it’s hard. Consider going through Henry Blackaby’s study, “Experiencing God”. Let God use what looks like a difficult time to show himself faithful to you, and as importantly, to people around you, who may not know Jesus.
Blessings.
Yes! And how God works in wonderful ways…though we don’t always see it at the time, do we? After our first child was born, I was unable to have any more. My heart was just broken. I wanted more children so badly. But God said, “No,” and instead, has brought us four more children through international adoption. What a blessing! A blessing that I never could have imagined those years ago. Not only has our family grown more than we planned, we have also become advocates for the orphan. I’m so glad that I have a God that loves His children so much, and has the best plans for us. We just have to wait on Him and His perfect plan!
My husband and I were both let go from our jobs-he in November of last year and me in January of this year. It has been a humbling experience in many ways. The blessing that has poured out from it is that my oldest son is now able to attend college (with a LOT of financial aid). God takes what we viewed as a bad circumstance and has turned it for good!
Yes, over and over again. God loves to take the worst in me and make it into something beautifully broken.
Father God, I pray for financial provision for this man in need of a new job. Open the way where there seems to be no way. Use this time for good. We trust You in the waiting.
Waiting to see what God is going to do in our current situation.