From Crisis to Breakthrough: Reimagining Your WorkSample

 When Crisis Strikes, We Need the Right Mindset

Crisis happens. Your largest client goes to a competitor; layoffs occur; foul play is uncovered; a pandemic causes a massive shutdown of the economy. Crisis is unavoidable in a broken world. When crisis threatens our work and our security, it can break us. But the breakdown and disruption that result from a crisis can be a catalyst for breakthrough. 

Breakthroughs aren’t typically born out of smoothly running processes and problem-free days. They often come to us as a result of an urgent problem for which we need to find a solution.

When Nehemiah received the news of the Jews’ plight, he broke down and wept for days. He felt compelled to do something for his people, even though he had responsibilities as cup bearer to the king and was a long distance from the city. He turned to God with mourning, prayer, and fasting. 

Nehemiah:

• Confessed the sins of the people of Israel, including his own sins and the sins of his family.
• Repented and sought to help God’s people return to Him and obey His commands.
• Oriented himself to God’s greater purposes through His Word.

After four months of prayer, Nehemiah knew what he needed and had the courage to make his request of the king because He had sought God’s guidance and favor. He positioned himself for success.

We need to give ourselves space to grieve. But grief doesn’t get the last word for those who believe. Jesus told us to expect trouble. He also reassured us that He has given us the ultimate victory. When crisis strikes, it’s not time to panic. It’s time to seek God more diligently. 

What crisis, big or small, are you facing in your work? What do you need to confess? How can you repent? How can you align your mindset with the purposes of God? 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You that we don’t have to be hopeless victims to crises. You told us to expect trouble and that You use all things for good. Thank You that we already have the ultimate victory in Christ. Lord, I confess that I have tried to work under my own strength. Lord, please give me the strength, courage, and wisdom to align my mindset with Yours. In Jesus’ name, amen.