The Struggle Is Real

I've been struggling with what to blog about- Its been easier in the past because I've been very positive...

But lately I've been bogged down with alot of stress and worry. Why? Because everyone seems to ask this one question:

"Have you secured employment upon graduation?" "Do you have a job yet?" "Got any job plans?"

That question is seriously, the worst. It looms over me like a dark cloud.  I'm excited to graduate (I think?!) but getting a full time job is the hardest thing I have ever had to do. It gets me all bent up inside. I need some reassurance...

The Story of Hannah, 1 Samuel Chp 1
This is the woman I was named after and her story is absolutely inspiring. (If you have never read it, please do so!)  She wants so badly to have a child that it grieves her to the depths of her soul. She pours her grief and anguish out to the Lord and asks to be remembered in her sorrow. She then trusts that the Lord has heard her cry and continues worshiping.

Guess what? He remembers her! She is blessed with a beautiful baby boy, which she names Samuel. Samuel means "God has heard". Wow. What a loving and wonderful God to answer her prayer and ease her wrecked soul.
But Hannah doesn't just say "thanks!" and head on her merry way. She dedicates Samuel back to God and Samuel goes on to be a great prophet and judge of Israel.
Her selfless act blessed Israel for many generations.
And God continues to bless her with more children.

My heart would burst with joy! In Chp 2, Hannah offers up a prayer of rejoicing, thanksgiving and glory to God: 

“No one is holy like the Lord,
For there is none besides You,
Nor is there any rock like our God."

I need to follow in Hannah's footsteps during my own time of grief and struggle:

 My Dearest Lord, my heart is heavy with worry and anxiety about my near future. I fear that I will not have a job after graduation and we will face hard times that we may not be able to handle. I ask that you give me strength and perseverance during my job search. I ask that you will lead me to a job where I may shine your light to those around me and that will provide for my family. Thank you for my education, my wonderful family and my husband. Help me to remember that all is for your glory. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Now, chill.           GOD'S GOT IT.


A verse that would be handy to memorize and quote to yourself when stress is overwhelming:
 Isaiah 41:10 "Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."