Phil 4:4-7 “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, 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.” NIV
Every resume sent and application filed was a dead end. “We’re sorry. We’ve reviewed your application, but your skills don’t match anything we have available.” Or, “Thanks for your interest, but we’ve decided to move in another direction.”
Job hunting in a declining economy isn’t pleasurable. The relentless searching is taxing and provides fertile ground for worry, anxiety, depression and emotional burnout to breed. States of mind that tarnish my soul, poison those around me and obstruct satisfied living.
Paul was no stranger to anxiety-producing situations. From beatings to jail to being shipwrecked and misunderstood by his peers, he faced tough conditions. Yet he discovered a way to avoid anxiety and live an emotionally full life in the process. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything (Philippians 4:6 NLT). Paul was only echoing what Jesus earlier taught: So I tell you, don’t worry about everyday life (Matthew 6:34 NLT).
Knowing we shouldn’t worry is one thing; not actually doing it is another. Paul learned contentment regardless of his situation, and we can too. Constant states of worry and anxiety are physically, spiritually and emotionally draining. They divide our mind and keep us from focusing on-and enjoying, the rich life God has planned for us. And when we’re miserable, it makes those around us dismal too.
I finally found employment-and at an enjoyable position. I couldn’t force an opening, but God made one where there was supposedly not one. When worry’s shadow begins creeping over you, commit the state of affairs to God through prayer and let him have control. Then determine whether there’s anything you can do to help ease the pain of the situation.
Prayer: Lord, we place our worries in Your hands believing You control every situation in our life.