Job and career changes happen to everyone, sometimes by our own choice and at other times completely against our will. In your job, you may get laid off, promoted, transferred, or demoted. Or maybe you find that the career track you are on is dissatisfying. You know in your heart that you need to take an entirely different path, but you are worried about how you are going to make the transition. Either way, your life is headed for a major disruption.
Confronting a major change in your livelihood is daunting, especially if you shoulder the responsibility of supporting your family. Transitions bring about uncertainty, stress, and anxiety. Even more, if you are a good Christian man (or aspiring to be!), you are probably apt to internalize your struggles, not wanting your wife or children to experience – or, in some cases, even be aware – of what you are going through. You take all of the worry on your own shoulders and try to carry your burden in isolation.
But is that really your best way to cope? Is that what God wants you to do?
Embracing Your Faith Amidst Uncertainty
At Man in the Mirror, we spend a lot of time thinking about and discussing the challenges that men face. And nearly every man, at one point or another, experiences the challenges that come with job or career changes. They almost always involve financial worries, and can often also involve relationship problems. You may be feeling inadequate and uncomfortable, not knowing where to turn, not knowing how to spend your pent-up energy and drive, feeling frustrated and full of self-doubt. Your wife may be worried about the bills and your family’s future, and she may not be able to hide her own anxiety.
It is in these times of personal crisis that you may begin to question God’s plan for you. Why does the world seem so callous and uncaring? Why do you have to work so hard or suffer just to make a living for you and your family? Is this all there is? Let us reassure you: No, it’s not.
Yes, you have a problem. But your personal crisis does not necessarily need to lead to a spiritual crisis. In fact, it can be an opportunity for the Lord to build your spiritual fortitude. And Jesus gives us a plan of action:
“So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. (Matthew 6:31-33, NLT, emphasis added)
It is natural for you to experience the fears and doubts that plague everyone else in your situation; every man deals with uncertainty and fear of the unknown in their own way. But your faith can provide a foundation of unshakeable strength and assurance that can guide you through this transition period. Seek the Kingdom of God, live righteously, trust in God’s plan, even when the path ahead seems unclear or troubled.
Seeking Guidance Through Prayer
However, telling yourself you have complete trust in God is not the same thing as actually living it. Faith and prayer are not a magic formula that can immediately make everything okay. The fact is, God can test your faith by allowing you to experience or even send you hardships. Faith demands much more than adopting a sunny, optimistic attitude. It may require great sacrifice and utter abandonment to His will, particularly when that will does not align with your own.
Rest assured that you are not alone in your journey; you can actively invite Jesus Christ to walk alongside you through prayer. No matter the challenge, God has a purpose and plan for your life, and it is essential to be open to that plan even when -– or especially when — that plan does not seem to make sense. God’s plan is not for you to judge. Reflect deeply and uncritically on your life experiences, and you will soon discover that many things you thought were bad breaks were actually blessings.
Consequently, prayer is not just asking God for favors but truly listening to what God tells you. Prayer is a direct conduit to obtaining guidance, wisdom, strength, and comfort. In times of transition, dedicating time to prayer can help you discern the right steps to take. James 1:5 encourages you, stating, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
Rely on Your Community
Remember, too, that God can speak through others, including your spouse and even your own young children. Don’t be so guarded that you are not open to seeing new perspectives or unable to sympathize with how your career problems are affecting those you love. Your crisis and anxiety about yourself does not excuse you from loving those who love you. Do not forsake your duty to be the pillar on which your family leans. Focusing on them can give you a renewed sense of mission.
Beyond that, Christian communities can be a source of immense support during career transitions. Your church or Bible study group can offer fellowship, encouragement, and practical assistance. Do not hesitate to reach out for support, whether it’s through prayer groups, counseling, job networking events, or simply community activities where informal conversations can produce leads and insights.
Being open can alleviate your feelings of isolation and provide practical resources and moral support. Remember, others have already walked your path, and their experiences can be eye-opening and encouraging. You are part of a larger body that cares for your well-being. Do not be too proud to accept help from others -– remember that, as God works through others, discerning God’s message will require opening your heart.
A man’s worst enemy is often his own pride, so accepting what others tell you requires humility. Never be ashamed of humility -– it takes a strong and courageous man to be humble; being arrogant and proud is for those who are insecure in themselves and their faith.
Trust in God’s Purposes
Overcoming obstacles in our lives temper us; hardships and struggles are the fire that strengthens our steel. When your strength is tested with difficulties, trust that you will be a better man for them. Your trials and struggles will reveal to you what God has made you capable of.
But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (2 Corinthians 12:9)
Unfailing trust in God through our most difficult moments is how God molds us and builds us, shaping us into who He wants us to be.
During your professional transition, focus on the positives, especially what you are grateful for. Your family, good friends, and other blessings should reinforce your conviction that God is good, shifting your mindset from worry to hope. This positive perspective not only benefits you but sets an example for your family that they will take to heart when faced with their own challenges. Think of how important this is to your children, demonstrating to them how faith and confidence during challenging times can reinforce their trust in God’s providence. Incidentally, that positive attitude will also manifest itself when you talk to prospective employers, and leave a good impression; people gravitate to individuals who exude confidence rather than fear.
Don’t lose sight of the fact that these transitions are opportunities to deepen your faith and to bring your family closer together and closer to God. When you carry your cross, you are walking with Christ Himself. While you may not be able to shed your worries entirely, never waver in the conviction that holding true to your faith is how you will reach the other side as a better Christian and, consequently, a better man.
Our mission at Man in the Mirror is to help strengthen Christian men in every aspect of their lived faith: health, family, church, work, and community. By uplifting ourselves and other men, we can transform the world one man at a time. Contact us to learn more about how we can support you with resources to deepen your journey as a follower of Christ and help us build a worldwide community of men willing to accept the mission of growing God’s kingdom here on earth.
