Do you remember how you felt when you landed your first job? Maybe you were like me, idealistic and ready to take on the world. I knew I was doing what God called me to and I could hardly contain my excitement. Business cards were printed with my name on it AND I had my own office … with a window … eek! It just couldn’t get any better.
Imagine my bubble being burst shortly after realizing that everything wasn’t how it seemed. There was a lack of integrity in the environment and such was acceptable. The Holy Spirit was challenging me to not just go with the flow. I had to try to make a difference in correcting the corrupt system.
I quickly learned that this newbie’s thoughts were unwelcome. People were unkind as they questioned my character and I felt alone. Doubts hovered as I wondered if I had heard God correctly. The situation became so difficult that I found myself crying and feeling stressed regularly for months and months.
It appeared that the most logical solution was to just quit. I told myself that anything had to be better than that situation. Yet, the more I sought the Lord’s counsel, the more I knew I was not being released to just walk away. Yes, it was a trying position but I had to persevere.
1 Corinthians 15:58 reminds us to “… stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
The Lord in His infinite mercy gave me the strength to lift my head each day, to keep my eyes fixed on Him, and to work diligently as unto Him. In His time, positive changes were made and I thank God. When I eventually transitioned to another job, I left with peace knowing that I had obeyed God and that I had done my best.
Dear Friend, I don’t know what challenging situation you find yourself in today. I understand that when the going gets tough, you may feel tempted to just give up. But what is the Lord telling you to do? If you haven’t done so already, seek Him. Wait upon Him. Trust Him. The Lord will direct your steps. When you follow His leading, His perfect peace will cover you.
How can I pray for your situation? Please feel free to include it in the comments or send us a message.
~Joyce
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