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.
Martin Wiles
Hodges, South Carolina, USA