BGEA: I lost my job a few weeks ago, and I can't decide what to do next. My choices are to take a job that's been offered to me (at less pay), or else dip into my savings and take some job training at our local community college. What would you do if you were in my shoes?

I lost my job a few weeks ago, and I can't decide what to do next. My choices are to take a job that's been offered to me (at less pay), or else dip into my savings and take some job training at our local community college. What would you do if you were in my shoes? — W.L.

The first thing I'd do is thank God that I had a choice! Almost every day I receive at least one letter from someone who's lost their job and has little hope of finding another one. We should be praying for all who face these hardships, and also for our leaders during this difficult time.

The most important step you can take is to pray and seek God's will about this decision. God knows all about you; He knows what is best for you and wants to guide you - because He loves you. Do you believe that? It's true - and I know it's true because Jesus Christ was willing to lay down His life for you. If you have never opened your heart and life to Him, I urge you to take that step of commitment today.

How does God guide us as we make decisions like this? Sometimes He gives us an inner conviction that a certain path is the right one. Sometimes He opens a door of opportunity for us, while closing others. He also may use wise friends to help us understand our abilities (and limitations), or help us see where each choice might lead. The Bible also is vital; it tells us how to live and what our goals should be.

The Bible says, "Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him. ... Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him" (Psalm 37:5, 7). Put your life - and your future - into His hands.

3 Comments

Mark says 1.11.2011, 09:48 a.m.

I chose to retire from a well paying job after 22 years to start a ministry for those suffering from addiction. This last year has been difficult financially as well as personally as I have had several losses in my family. It has come to the point that I have to get back to work and earn more than my pension. Thus I too am looking for work. The truth I would like to point out to you is this. I would not trade this past year of difficulty for anything. God has taken what I see as hardship and shown me his incredible provision and presence. It is during these times that God is able to demonstrate himself the most and teach us how to seek his purpose for life (including work) instead of our purpose. One word has been paramount this year. Trust. Proverbs 3:5-8. He will make known to you which direction to take. Although it is hard at times and we get concerned over the future we must simply trust and listen. He will be faithful to guide us as He promised.

Peggy says 9.6.2010, 1:33 p.m.

Talk to God, ask him what you should do. If it was me (and i am unemployed)i would take the job at lesser pay , at least it is a job. At the same time I would take some training courses thru your local college (and some wok places encourge on goin training to better youself because it helps ther business,some will send you for training) When you finish you school job training you can get the job you seek , but in the mean time a job is a job that will bring in income and you might keep in mind that if you turn down a job you could lose your unemployment. But the only one that can tell you what to do is GOD so ask him and trust in him.

Martins says 9.6.2010, 03:16 a.m.

I have been in that situation about three times. I can say that absolutely focus and depend on GOD during periods like this will guarantee you another job, or what to do to make live blosom again. Commit all your ways unto The Lord and He shall surely direct your path.