What do you do when your world falls apart?
In today’s world we face set backs and disappointments. Women can face the loss of their own job or the loss of their husbands job. A job is not only the place where you gain provision for your family, it is also a place where relationships are built. What do you do when you or someone you love experiences a setback? Here’s my story:
Steps to Take When Your Word Falls Apart
1. Think Positive
No matter what happens to shake your world, it’s helpful to get a perspective on things. If “your world is falling apart” then your world is likely too small.
Lift up your eyes in gratitude to God. What can you thank Him for? Meditate on Scriptures like this:
“Be thankful in all circumstances,
for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”
It is true that an attitude of gratitude will increase your latitude! So think positive.
2. Learn From Your Mistakes
I remember a teacher coming to me for counsel. She worked for the public schools so I was not her direct boss, but a mentor in her life. She talked about not being promoted for something. I gave her assignment to go to her boss and ask these questions: What am I doing well? What am I not doing enough of? What areas do I need to improve in?
I let her know a secret, often people don’t tell you what they really think unless you ask. If you humble yourself, ask for input, you will learn from your mistakes more quickly.
3. Walk in Faith
It is important to process everything with eyes of faith. Even as you look honestly at your mistakes, do not allow any words to assault the essence of who you are as a person. Your identity in Christ is a much better truth to meditate on.
Don’t allow your situation to define you. God is the only One who truly knows your potential. Lots of successful people have have failed on the way to success.
Abraham Lincoln and Thomas Edison are two examples of men that just wouldn’t give up. They prevailed and left their mark on history. Many consider Abraham Lincoln to be one of the best United States presidents in American History. He was elected just in time to navigate a torn nation through the civil war. Without Thomas Edison, our days would be shorter without the light bulb he created. He was an expert at learning from his mistakes as a prolific inventor with over 1,000 US patents.
You Have a Destined “Fit”
You may not be the next president or master inventor, but you are God’s masterpiece (see Ephesians 2:10). You have been created for good works that God has just for you! As you walk with Him in humility, He will be the One who will raise you up, promote you and provide for you. He will be the One who will lead you to live a life of purpose and fulfillment.
Every set-back can be God’s promotion in disguise… I would love to hear your comments here: What are you going through? Is this a helpful perspective for you?
Sue, I had a similar experience in 2007. My Company was shut down. I was 49 years old and paying my daughter’s college tuition. My wife and I had total faith that the Lord knew the plan He had for my life and trusted Him to lead me to the next adventure. He gave me a wonderful job that I still enjoy! Then in 2010, I was diagnosed with bladder cancer. Again, I had not one moment of anxiety of fear. He has me in His Hands. Zig Zigler once said, “If the Lord wants to take me home, nothing will stop that. If the Lord wants me to remain here, nothing will prevent that.” Either way, I can trust that He has my good and His glory in mind at all times. Jesus said He will always be with me. He always has. I am cancer-free, fully employed and blessed beyond what I deserve. All glory goes to God the father and Christ His Son.
Dave, Tears came to my eyes as I read your testimony. God does have your good in mind. Thank you for your encouraging words today. The walk of faith is not an easy journey, but it is full of rewards.