Q:
I've been unemployed for over a year, and I've given up even looking for a job. My life seems so hopeless. All I do is sit around the house and watch television while my wife nags me to get a job. How can I get out of this pit?
A:
My heart goes out to you and to all those who have lost their jobs recently. Unemployment often not only affects people economically, but also emotionally and spiritually. The Bible says, “A man can do nothing better than to … find satisfaction in his work” (Ecclesiastes 2:24).
The most important thing I can tell you is that God knows your situation and He cares for you and has a plan for your future. Our lives are never hopeless when we put them in God’s hands! This is why the most important step you can take right now is to open your heart to Christ and ask Him to help you. By a simple prayer of faith put your life into His hands and ask Him to guide you. The Bible says, “As for God, his way is perfect” (Psalm 18:30).
Then ask Him to give you the desire to do whatever you need to do to find another job. It’s been said that our first step is often our hardest—and it’s true. But if you know Christ, you do not take it alone. Trust Him to guide you to the job He has already prepared for you. If you need retraining, ask Him to open that door also.
In the meantime, take your free time as a gift from God and ask Him to help you use it wisely. Do projects around the house, for example, or volunteer to help others in your community or church.