Embracing the Struggle: Faith, Work, and Resilience
The bank account is empty, the cabinets are bare, and the pockets may not have seen a quarter in a long time. What do we do? Where do we go? And perhaps the tougher question is: Is it worth the struggle anymore?
Many people in the USA know how to work the system and have more than their fair share without ever working. Others simply give up and live in their cars for a time, until those cars are sold for food or towed away by authorities. It can be tough trying to make ends meet and provide for our basic needs. However, at no point in the Scriptures are we encouraged to simply stop trying and give up. God's Word is clear about the need to work and strive. Ephesians 4:28 states, "Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need." The Bible does not suggest that we look for the next entitlement or handout from the government; rather, we should strive to work and do our best.
Colossians 3:23 puts it this way: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart..." Granted, there are individuals in need of assistance—the sick, elderly, and physically challenged—but those begging out of pure laziness should not only be ashamed but also get up and go to work.
As a young father, I was always scared of not having enough to provide for the family that God had blessed me with. We had a tin can where we would put our spare change when we had some. Our daughters knew it was there, and if needed, it could be used. There were times my wife and I counted out enough change to purchase gas to travel back and forth to work. We were never rich or famous; we didn't always have the best or the newest, but we survived and were even blessed. And we never gave up.
God has a desire and plan for you, and He wants to help you along your journey; therefore, never give up. Jeremiah 29:11 shares, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Too often, some of us simply stop trying, and at times, we may even contemplate drastic measures to end the struggle. But please stop and consider that the Almighty God has a truly wonderful plan for your life. Hang in there, reach out to someone nearby to talk to, and never give up.
Spiritual Spotlights is praying for you, and we will try to connect you with someone in your area to help you on your journey to work!