So often work is hard. Even when you’re in a role that you feel called to, there are days when it seems nothing is going right. Delays are happening. Resistance. Challenges. Overwhelmed. It so easy to get discouraged and want to quit… or check-out. How do you get through the most difficult days at work?
I recently read the book of Haggai in the Bible. It takes place at a time when the people of God have returned from decades in exile to their homeland. They have found favor with their enemies and received permission to go home and begin rebuilding their city and the temple for God. They also realize this is something God has called them to do.
However, when they return they face resistance. Things aren’t turning out as they had hoped. There are roadblocks, barriers, and detours. They’re especially frustrated as they realize this is something God wants them to do. They want to quit.
If God calls us to something, it should be easy right? Maybe not.
God uses the prophet Haggai to say the following:
“4 But now be strong, Zerubbabel,’ declares the Lord. ‘Be strong, Joshua son of Jozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land,’ declares the Lord, ‘and work. For I am with you,’ declares the LordAlmighty. 5 ‘This is what I covenanted with you when you came out of Egypt. And my Spirit remains among you. Do not fear.’” (Haggai 2:4-5)
Now hear those words as if they’re spoken directly to you from God, “Be strong… be strong… be strong… for I am with you… my Spirit remains among you… do not fear!”
Just because God calls you to something, doesn’t mean it won’t be hard. No matter how difficult your work may seem today, remember that God is with you. Rely on His strength. Difficulty doesn’t mean that you missed God. It just means you must rely on Him that much more. Have hope. Now, get to work!
Question: How can I pray for you at your work today? What challenges are you facing? You can leave a comment by clicking here.
My team struggles with management because there is no clear leadership. There are some people in place holders from what I can see. Management will ask for ideas to help improve systems but never use them or act like it never was brought up. We approach with solid ways to improve our situation and it goes over their head. My boss doesn’t even know how to use the database we use daily and unable to help us solve and see problems because of this. We are very under staff and many are worried a big mistake will happen before something changes.
I have days it gets to me but I’m trying to remain positive. Ideally I’d like to become one of the leaders because my experience and people skills could do a lot. Praying for a lot here. 🙂 thanks!!
Lisa, thanks for sharing. I’m praying for you tonight. Praying for wisdom to navigate the struggles, insights in how you can step up to lead from your current role, and patience to persevere.