you choose Q: how do I deal with job loss?
by an odj community member on November 1st, 2012 |
5 comments categories:
anxiety/depression,
christian living,
discouragement,
doubt,
employer/employee,
encouragement,
faith,
God's provision,
hope,
self-image,
suffering,
work
Q: There are many people who are looking for a job and are frustrated with the way our economy has changed in the past few years. What is some Bible-based advice for these situations? —Gerald
A: Many people are struggling to make sense of today’s transitional work world. Any time there is a change in an organization—new leadership, merger, acquisition, downturn in business, new technology—employees may be targeted for job loss. This fast-paced change in the work world is expected to continue and will be the new normal going forward with continued job transitioning.
With all this change comes a lot of uncertainty, anxiety, suffering, and confusion for those who may be impacted. A job loss is considered one of the more significant losses in one’s life. It leaves individuals and families in a state of bewilderment for a time.
With all of this uncertainty and change, the true certainties our hearts long for run much deeper. We know that life can be difficult, but we also know that we’re not alone in our hardship. God is there . . . even when the bottom drops out of our world. Hebrews 13: 5-6 reassures us: “Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, ‘I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.’So we can say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?’ ” God is there with us, and we never face our burdens alone—that’s a guarantee!
For more help with job loss, take a moment to read this online booklet: Now What? A Healing Journey Through Job Loss. —Chuck Fridsma
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My brother just learned yesterday that a takeover is eliminating his job. He is relying on Jesus and confident that he will make it through, but it may not be easy. I think it’s important for those who have an income stream to look after those who are going without, and for those who are looking for new employment to remember that their most important callings–to follow Jesus, to their spouse, to their children, and to their parents and siblings–are too valuable to ever bring a paycheck. We are still retain our highest vocations, even when we’re unemployed.
Praying for your, bro, Mike. Good point to keep our eyes open for ways to help those who have been affected by job loss.
As such finding a job is tough and the current state of economy has made it all the more difficult. The uncertainty of the future is frightening. But then, even in the worst financial crisis, we can still cling to God and remain hopeful. One of my favorite promises in the Bible is Jeremiah 29:11- “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
In my personal experience, the key to persevering through such trials is in trusting God. Whether it involves our jobs or anything else, we need to remember that with every loss there is a gain. Think positively. Sometimes having a demanding job can be more stressful than not having a job. God has allowed this for His good purposes.
Use this situation as an opportunity to rest and reorganize. Things will turn around and God will provide for all your needs in ways beyond your imaginations. So, draw closer to Him and stay faithful in the midst of these troubles. Pray without ceasing. Don’t feel shy to share about your needs and seek support from the church family.
On a practical note, continue to apply for jobs. It is wise to be flexible regarding the job type and salary. One of our Chinese friends from Singapore who is an aeronautical engineer worked for a while in a farm when his company closed down. His yellow complexion almost changed into a dark tan because of sowing seeds under the severe sun.
Therefore, this is not the time to be pick and choose; find some work—paid or voluntary. It will keep you occupied and prevent depression caused by too much of worrying. Moreover, only when a job is lost, we learn to depend on God and realize that it is He who provides for us and our families and not our employers. Above all, it is good to experience and know how to live on almost nothing and be content in everything.
daisymarygoldr, love your thought about making sure to stay occupied even if you aren’t employed in an occupation! God can open doors for jobs even as we volunteer and serve.
daisymarygoldr, thanks again for your encouraging and practical thoughts.
Here is another scripture input in Matthew 6:25-34 to remind and reassure us of God’s provision and promises.
So, continue to seek God, worship and praise Him for everything and in whatever our circumstances. May we pray and be there for those in need.