Trusting the Process: my job search

For the past ten years, my home and my heart have been devoted to homeschooling. It was more than just a job; it was a calling, a purpose, and a structured part of my life. (previous post From Student to Teacher) But as that chapter has now closed, I find myself standing at the beginning of something entirely new—seeking a part-time job outside the house for the first time in 16 years.

And let me tell you, this is not easy.

Facing the Unknown

It’s one thing to decide to pursue a job. It’s another thing to step into that pursuit, facing the reality of interviews, unfamiliar environments, and the logistics of navigating new spaces. The thought of walking into a facility for the first time, not knowing the layout, wondering how I’ll maneuver confidently—it’s intimidating.

For me, that initial walk-up feels like a vulnerable moment. I like to be strong, prepared, and independent. But this process exposes uncertainty, and that’s hard to accept. There’s a part of me that sees it as a weakness, and I wrestle with that.

Yet, I am reminded of 2 Corinthians 12:9:"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."

God is not hindered by my weaknesses. He is magnified in them. This season of transition is not about proving my strength—it’s about leaning on His.

Looking Back to Move Forward

But then I remind myself—I have felt this way before.

There was a time when the thought of driving felt impossible. When discussions about getting my license arose, my mind immediately went to the logistics: "How am I going to physically walk back to the trunk to retrieve my walker?"

That question alone felt like an immovable obstacle. And yet… I do it now. It’s part of my routine, something I once thought was nearly unattainable.

This reminds me of Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."

It wasn’t instant. It wasn’t easy. But with each step, I adapted, learned, and persevered. And if God brought me through that, then I trust He will bring me through this too.

Navigating the Job Search

To help me navigate this unfamiliar process, I’ve been working with a job coach. This has been a blessing because, while I am eager to start working, I also have to consider certain income and salary caps. These factors add another layer of complexity to my search.

It’s not just about finding any job—it’s about finding the right fit. I have valuable skills and experience to offer, and I don’t want to limit myself by rushing into something that isn’t aligned with my strengths or needs. But I also don’t want to settle out of fear or impatience.

This brings to mind Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

God has already prepared the path ahead. My job is to trust Him and take one step at a time.

Balancing Patience and Action

I find myself in a delicate balance—taking action while waiting on God’s direction. It’s easy to get discouraged when things don’t move as quickly as I’d like. Some days, I feel confident. Other days, I wonder if I’ll ever find the right opportunity.

But I remind myself of Isaiah 40:31: "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."

Waiting on the Lord is not passive—it’s active trust. I should be an expert by now! It’s believing that even when I can’t see the whole picture, He is working on my behalf.

Strength is Not the Absence of Struggle

I used to think that strength meant never feeling unsure, afraid, or overwhelmed. But I’m learning that true strength is pressing forward despite those feelings. It’s admitting when something is hard but refusing to let it stop me.

Psalm 46:1 reminds me: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

So, while stepping into the workforce after so many years is scary, I know that I am not alone. God has been faithful through every season of my life, and He will be faithful in this one too.

One Step at a Time

This job search—this new, uncertain chapter—is another mountain to climb. And while I may not have all the answers, I do know this: I’ve overcome before, and I will again.

So if you’re facing something new—something that feels overwhelming—remember this: growth happens in the moments when we feel the most uncertain. Strength isn’t just about having it all figured out; it’s about showing up anyway.

This journey is intimidating, but it’s mine to take. And step by step, I’ll find my way.

As Joshua 1:9 says: “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest."

I don’t know exactly where this road leads, but I do know Who is guiding my steps.

And that is enough.

The Mountain Path: A Journey, Not Just a Climb

I know you’ve heard me talk about mountains to climb—about facing obstacles, pushing through challenges, and experiencing victory. But when you really think about it, climbing a mountain is not just about going straight up.

If you’ve ever hiked a real mountain, you’ll notice that the trail is rarely a direct path. If it were, the ascent would be so steep that you’d have to crawl or struggle to gain footing. Instead, most trails zigzag back and forth, weaving through switchbacks. At times, it may feel like you’re taking the long way around, looping and retracing steps rather than making direct progress. But those winding paths exist for a reason—they make the climb manageable.

That’s how life’s challenges often unfold. We want to tackle them head-on, to move in a straight line from struggle to success. But God, in His wisdom, often leads us through a different route—one that may seem longer or even repetitive, but ultimately, it is the path that will get us to the top.

This reminds me of Isaiah 55:8-9: "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts."

I may not always understand why the path looks the way it does, but I can trust that God’s plan is higher than mine. He sees the whole mountain when I only see the next step.

So, as I navigate this season of change—searching for a new job, stepping into unfamiliar territory—I remind myself that the journey doesn’t have to be rushed or taken in a single stride. If God is leading me on a winding path, it’s because He knows it’s the best way for me to reach the top.

And when I get there, I’ll look back and see that every turn, every step, and every challenge had a purpose.

Psalm 37:23 says: "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way."

So, I will keep walking, trusting that each step—no matter how indirect it seems—is leading me exactly where I am meant to be.

Tell me, what are you searching for?

Be encouraged. 🧡