Job loss?
spiritual guidance for career transition

Most would agree that the 30- or 40-year career with the same company has pretty much gone the way of the dodo bird. Like it or not, we need to be prepared to deal with a constantly changing economic landscape. For many, it’s necessary to think about what we’d do if our company had to downsize or move operations overseas. At the same time, we also need to be discerning what God is calling us to do.

Recently, I confronted both of these issues. Over the past few years, I experienced a growing discontent with my job, and have been actively seeking what God wants me to do. I decided to leave the company I worked for and seek other employment. Although the situation causes stress, I feel at peace. I had prepared myself both professionally and spiritually. As long as I allow God to guide me, I know in my heart that everything is going to work out OK.

I would like to offer you some of the guidance that I received throughout my spiritual exploration and career transition:

1 Take money out of the equation. When deciding on a career path, forget about money initially. If you first trust God’s purpose for you, you will receive what you need when you need it.
2 Let go of your ego. The principal enemy of your self-image is the measurement of your value primarily according to secular standards.
3 God has a mission for you. This is your opportunity to truly figure out what that mission is.
4 Be a good role model. Your show of faith and courage in dealing with your career situation may be the best example you will ever set for your children or for others.
5 Don’t dwell on your own problems. Connect with others in the same boat. It’s very rewarding to help others along their journey as well.

According to the catechism, “Human work proceeds directly from persons created in the image of God and called to prolong the work of creation … ” (2427) It goes on to state, “In work, the person exercises and fulfills in part the potential inscribed in his nature.” (2428) In other words, the need to help create God’s kingdom is built right into you. The only way you will be at peace is to honor that call. Furthermore, according to the Gospel , if you seek first God’s kingdom – which involves seeking to fulfill your calling through your work – then God will take care of your material needs. (Luke 12:29-31) Thus, you no longer need to worry about job security as defined by this world. Your security will come through God.

Originally Published: June 2004