Living a Layoff...

We often hear people say “keep the faith”, when we face situations which cause us to worry. In times of turmoil, we sometimes forget God is present. We concern ourselves in what’s ahead, and have difficulty dealing with feelings of despair.

Unemployment has touched the lives of many who once enjoyed opportunities to be productive. They have lost their jobs, and are struggling to learn how to live a layoff. 

We can learn a lot about ourselves, when we’re faced in situations which seem overwhelming and difficult to bear. "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV) is a message which brings hope to those who find comfort in understanding they are not alone.

   

Human weakness does not allow us to consider good will come, even when we believe. It’s easy to feel hopeless, when we cannot see the entire picture God has planned for our lives. But the Bible says if we have faith as small as a mustard seed, God will hear our prayers and answer them with His will. I know this to be true, even when we are discouraged. 

In times of doubt, God speaks to us. As we come before His presence, He allows us to hear the guiding of our hearts. In quiet hour moments, He fills us with His peaceful reassurance, and reminds us we are not measured by our employment. God has a job for us! He prepares us to work for Him, and understand He has a plan for our lives.

There are many who are without work. Pray they will see God as the provider of all things. Pray they will find strength, as they learn to trust in Him. God is near! He can reach out and lift us to His arms of strength, even when our faith is as small as a mustard seed.

The labors of our love can be used by God. He can lead us toward other opportunities to serve Him, and teach us once again to develop a grateful heart of faith. God can help us begin to see His provisions for our lives, and understand He has a plan. God is in control. He is in charge of our days, even in the midst of a layoff.

God is near and He loves YOU,

Nan