So one week ago today, I received some startling news. It seems that the church where I work has, like so many others, finally succumbed to the economic downturn, necessitating budget cuts. These cuts included layoffs, and one of the eliminated positions was mine. Along with budget management, I suspect some “reprioritization” as well. Which is neither here nor there, as God ultimately moves people in and out of positions as needed according to his plan, not the plans of men.
God, of course, already knew this would be happening, and had thoughtfully arranged for a long-time friend to come the weekend before to stay with me. So along with having someone to talk to about things, I’ve actually been quite busy having dinner with friends, going to movies, shopping, etc.
This is not the first time I’ve been in this situation. (I worked in advertising for years where layoffs are almost a way of life.) I also documented a previous period of unemployment on this blog. Just glancing through those posts was an encouraging reminder of God’s provision.
So stay tuned. I’ll keep you posted on this new journey. As I wrote more than two years ago:
“A lot of life is lived between here and “there.” “There” being somewhere else we want to be. As singles, many of us want to be married. Most people want to achieve, impact, succeed, make a difference. It’s how we live in the in-between and deal with the challenges that shows what we really believe, and who we really are.”
theviewfromher.com 
Jan,
Sorry to hear about your unemployment. My church just laid off 3 staff members, too, one of whom is a very good friend of mine. It sucks, no matter which way you slice it. Your journey through your last unemployment season was something I shared with her to try to encourage her, so thanks for sharing. I’ll be praying for you.
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You are amazing Jan! I am a better person having met you 🙂
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So much for that church being a no-unemployment zone. As you would say, “heh.”
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Jen, yes there is definitely a certain irony to the situation. 🙂
Jolene, you’re an amazing, talented woman and I know God has great plans for you!
Nora, thanks so much for your encouragement. It is definitely giving me anxiety, but I am trying to focus on trusting God every day.
I’ll keep y’all posted!
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Jan,
I believe you will be sorely missed! You are such an incredible person with unsearched treasures! Know that I’m praying & believing that the steps that God ordered will be soon discovered! Then walked!
Remember these words “Be anxious for nothing, but In (every) everything…….. !Let him know where your at! I promise to remind of you too! thanks for bringing us into this part of your life! I honor your transparency & intestinal fortitude!
B~
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Bless you, Jan! Keep me posted.
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jan –
sorry to hear that – but you already know the drill {unfortunately} i have every confidence you’ll land at an even better place. God is just doing some shuffling. i so appreciate you and your spirit. let’s do another girls night or now we can do a day!
talk to you soon.
jackie
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I agree with your friend Jackie, God is just doing some shuffling right now.and soon He’ll deal you a Royal Flush. I know in my times of transition I rely on God the strongest,and knowing He’s there always brings me much comfort. Please know, you are tremendously missed at SHC.
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Jan–
As a person, as a writer, as a Christian, your giftedness, heart, wit, and creative exposure of truth all combine to insure, that God IS (note, this is not past-tense, nor future-tense) working both in you and through you.
Now, admittedly, that doesn’t trade well at the grocery store. (Hey, I’m gifted and am being used by God. May I just keep the celery?) BUT…our Father, who is especially fond of you, will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus and will not…will NOT let your needs go unmet.
I’m eager to read about His provision, because through your pen (keyboard), many will come to believe in Him and He will receive much glory. (and you will have lots of celery)!
Blessings,
Brad
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Jan,
Well, I don’t think I really have to say it.
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Looking forward to reading how God leads you through this next leg of the journey!
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Jan,
I know God has great plans for you…all you can do is hold on for the ride. I wish you the best.
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Enjoy this new phase in your life for all it’s worth. Perhaps it was unexpected but that doesn’t mean it has to be so bad. Until the money runs out of course!
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“It’s how we live in the in-between and deal with the challenges that shows what we really believe, and who we really are.”
Thank you for this Jan.
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