I started writing a devotional when I was going through unemployment after university in 2014. It was very challenging for me and I still wrestle with my identity being wrapped up in ‘what I do’ at times. I had only written it for seven days, but thought I would share it here to maybe encourage someone going through a tough time regarding work or lack of it. 

Day Six

The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:5-7

As I write this devotional I am waiting for an interview for a job. It looks too good to be true. Although the nerves creep in, I am quietly confident because of the promise found in the above verse. The Lord may not answer my prayer in the way I hope, but He fills me with the peace that I need and the assurance that I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me.

I have found that seeking God’s will and placing Him before everything should come first. Full surrender of job prospects go to Him. This may seem hard to do in practice and perhaps that is why the Lord gives us prolonged unemployment so we are in a position to simply surrender. It is His will that prevails. You may plan your way, but it is God who establishes your steps (Proverbs 16:19).

Prayer for today…

Dear Lord,

Thank you for giving us opportunities to apply for work and to have interviews. Although we are challenged by unemployment on a daily basis and the long period of waiting, we thank you for placing us in a position to fully surrender our job and our daily life to You. Sorry for the times that we try to establish our own steps and pay little attention to the blessings that surround us while we wait. Help us to surrender our job prospects to You and to never place You below our dreams and ambitions. Help us to recognise that You are the One who should come before every dream and every goal.

Amen