Divine Simplicity Focus on the things that matter…sweep aside the things that don't.

Prayer does not fit us for the greater works; prayer is the greater work. –Oswald Chambers

I once was employed under contract as a workforce developer for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. During the course of serving in this role I performed as a case manager for several hundred men and women who had lost their jobs. For the most part, my clients were blue collar workers from manufacturing industries in the Greater Pittsburgh area. If there’s one lesson I learned from this experience, it is that the only thing a worker complains more about than his or job is complaining about not having a job to go to each day.

For the past 12 years I’ve helped job seekers as a volunteer job coach. Many of those I assist are Christians.  I encourage believers to put God at the center of their job search. Christians job seekers can approach the process with the same principles that guide their faith and values. The following discusses some tips and guidance I give them.

Prayer: Begin by seeking God’s guidance through prayer. Ask for wisdom, discernment, and clarity in your job search. Pray for guidance on what kind of work aligns with your skills, interests, and values.

A prayer – Heavenly Father, you know my needs before I speak them. I come to You humbly seeking guidance and mercy in my job search. Provide suitable opportunities and lead me through a journey aligned with Your will. Grant me strength, wisdom, and favor as I seek employment.

When you are unemployed: I encourage unemployed job seekers to make the job search process their full-time job. Try to work at it at least six hours per day, five days per week. Make church, prayer and scripture reading part of your routine. Set aside time for family, fitness, recreation, and rest.   

Reflection: Reflect on your skills, interests, and values. Consider what type of work aligns with your talents and passions. This self-assessment can help you identify job opportunities that resonate with your God-given abilities.

Networking: Build and leverage your network of friends, family, and fellow believers. Networking can often lead to job opportunities and provide valuable insights into companies and industries. Attend church events and gatherings to connect with others who might have job leads or advice. Search the Internet for job networking groups near you.

A prayer – Heavenly Father, Guide and bless me as I network for my job search. May the connections I make be in accordance with Your will for my life. Help me to build meaningful relationships leading to opportunities.

Resume and cover letter: Build a well-written resume and cover letter that highlight your skills and experience. Be honest and accurate about yourself.

Online job search: Use online job search platforms to find job openings. Websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and others can help you identify job opportunities matching your qualifications.

Employer values: Research potential employers to ensure their corporate values and culture align with your beliefs and principles. Investigate their mission statement, corporate social responsibility, and work environment.

Christian Ethics Check: Ensure that the job you’re pursuing doesn’t involve unethical practices or conflicts with your Christian beliefs. For example, consider the ethical implications of the products or services the company provides.

Interview preparation: Prepare for job interviews by practicing common interview questions and formulating answers that reflect your values and experiences. Be honest and transparent during the interview process.

A prayer – God of all wisdom, you have promised to give wisdom to anyone who asks. As I approach my interview, please give me wisdom in my speech. Guide my thoughts and direct my steps. When I experience uncertainty and confusion, may I lean on your limitless wisdom. May your Holy Spirit be at work in me like a lamp to my feet and shield to my mind. Help me to think clearly and calmly. Help me to speak with confidence and clarity. Help me to glorify you in this interview.

Work-life balance: Prioritize work-life balance. Overworking can be detrimental to your spiritual and personal lives. Seek employers who offer flexibility and understand the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Patience and Trust: Job searches are marathons, not sprints. Trust in God’s plan for your life and exercise patience in the job search process. Sometimes, it may take time to find the right opportunity that aligns with your values and skills.

Seek advice: Consult with mentors, pastors, or other trusted individuals in your Christian circles for guidance and support during your job search. They can provide valuable insights and spiritual advice.

Remember that the job search process can be challenging, and it’s important to remain faithful to your principles and values throughout. Seek opportunities that allow you to be a positive influence in your workplace and community, and always strive to honor God in your work.

A prayer – Heavenly Father, help me to remain diligent in my job search because I know it is only with Your guidance that I can truly succeed.  Thank You, Holy Father, because I have faith that you are leading me toward the perfect employment opportunity.

*AI was used to search for the prayers used in this piece.