Job Qualifications

~~ Ephesians 2:10 (NASB) ~~  For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.



by Carley Cooper

Microsoft Office Copyright Free Images
I went to a small business college, and I graduated with a diploma that, at the time, qualified me to be a Computer Programmer and an entry level Accountant; topped off with some business courses.  After I graduated I had a very hard time finding a job.  For a very long time I heard the same old thing from every potential employer “Sorry, but you don’t have experience.  Come back when you’ve have some experience.”  Not one of them, though, told me how I was supposed to get experience without being hired somewhere  

So, what job did I finally get?!  I’m glad you asked.  I ended up working at a job that I was over qualified for; Mary Brown’s Fried Chicken, in St.John’s, Newfoundland, as a kitchen / counter worker.  I don’t even know if the job actually had a title.  It was not at all what I had dreamed about, but it helped pay the rent on my first apartment.  A few years later, I finally did get a great office job that I loved; after I moved to Barrie, Ontario.  It happened to be with The Salvation Army; a Christian charitable organization, so I felt that I had an even bigger purpose than just enjoying the work.  I loved it so much that a big chuck of my time there were extra hours as a volunteer, and it didn’t even occur to me to mind that I didn’t get paid for so many extra hours. 

Then, life took a big unexpected turn.  I was in a nasty car accident that turned my life upside down and left me in physiotherapy for two years.  It was a six-car pileup on an icy Ontario highway.  My injuries lead to other health issues, and eventually, I had to leave my job.  Around that same time my marriage ended.  My health issues got worse; and the end result is that I’ve only had work-at-home jobs since (either helping to run a business, or doing something creative).  I’ve technically been out of the workforce for a long time now.  Though, I still have health issues, I would love to get back into it.  I don’t want to sacrifice my writing for it, but the problem is that now I feel under qualified for anything and everything.  I did get some further education in more recent years, but even still, my education is way out of date, and I don’t have recent experience.  That is, outside of a volunteer job that I do one day per week at the church office.  I figure that no one in any industry that I would want to work for would take me seriously, let alone take a chance on hiring me.

It is the same feeling that I get when I think about being called to work for God.  I don’t feel qualified.  I don’t even feel like I’m taken seriously by those around me let alone hope to get a ministry; or a position, where I could lead someone to Christ or to discipleship.   I’ve made so many mistakes in life; committed so many bad sins.  Most of the time I don’t even feel qualified for an entry level position, let alone to be have a dream career! 

The other day someone left a comment that said “Carley, As usual another AWESOME Blog.  It seems as though you have become my Spiritual Life Coach.  What would I ever do without you?  Blessings my friend.”. 

Another person left a comment on one of my other blog sites that said “Carley... You are the best blogger ever!!  You are smart and funny!  I just found your blogs and can't wait to read the rest... Thank you.”

I replied with a thank you and telling the people how much it meant to me and how honored I was to receive such compliments.  It humbled me more than I can say.  I know that in God’s eyes, humility like that is a very good thing.  However, it makes me feel a little confused as well.  Sometimes even a little dishonest.  That’s because the truth is, that most days I feel like I’m treading water and sinking fast.  How could I coach anyone when I don’t know what I’m doing myself?  I can’t imagine that I am the ‘best ever’ anything.  Well, except the best Carley; but that could potentially lead me to a whole series of other thoughts and questions, which I’ll leave for another blog.  There are those that have way more education, experience, intelligence; and a better relationship with God than I do who aren’t the best ever.  I have no clue where I’m supposed to be in life, or what direction I’m supposed to go in.  I feel like I’m probably the only one who’s still so lost at this late date in my life.  Most people I know seemed to have figured out so much at an early age.  Why haven’t I?  Where did I get lost?  The only things I know about myself with much certainty are that I have some sort of a gift in written words, that my heart desperately aches every day for a relationship, and that I do feel vastly different from the rest of the planet (which traces back to my Social Anxiety and Bipolar Disorders).

Each and every one of us is called to the job of spreading the gospel (Mark 16:15 NIV84), and to create disciples for Jesus (Matthew 28:19 NIV1984).  As unsure I am of my own qualifications; I know that God doesn’t see me as being incapable.  I love Him, and I want more than anything for my heart to be like Jesus; the way God wants it to be.  I’m willing to let Him change me; even though it’s hard.  The bible is filled with characters that were inexperienced, sinful, and even willingly ran from their calling.  However, God chose them to do the job anyway.  He loved them nevertheless.  We don’t need prior experience, or knowledge; before He is willing to hire us.  You see, He not only has already planned and prepared our jobs for us, but He provides us with on the job training.  I really want this job.  How about you?  The benefit package is out of this world!  



~~ Dear God ~~  Thank You so much for creating a job position especially for me.  Please let me feel Your peace within me with each and every day of doing Your work that goes by.  Give me confidence in my abilities, and help me to have stronger faith in Your leading.  Please keep me in humility, and let me feel joyous in every duty that I fulfill.  In Jesus name, AMEN.



30 comments :

  1. AZMOMXTWOJune 09, 2012

    so true and we can all do the lords work

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for reading and for the feedback. Many blessings to you, and to the work you do for the Lord. HUGS.

      Delete
  2. JILLITA55June 09, 2012

    I am retired now, but I know how you feel. How can you learn unless someone wants to help you out. No one knows how to do it. They have to learn. The companies need to realize that people are better than they think. Good Luck to you!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for reading and for the feedback. Many blessings to you, and to the work you do for the Lord. HUGS.

      Delete
  3. DEBTEVELDAHLJune 09, 2012

    Awesome

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for reading and for the feedback. Many blessings to you. HUGS.

      Delete
  4. franceshdJune 09, 2012

    AMEN !

    I don't always comment on your posts,
    but they are always a Blessing !

    God is certainly working THRU YOU

    AGAPE !

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for reading and for the beautiful feedback. Many blessings to you. HUGS.

      Delete
  5. Carley... this goodie is the closest I could get to give you your own personal rainbow. I have been reading and re-reading your blogs and usually too overwhelmed to write you even a quick thank you note. Almost always I feel our shared Father has lead you to write in very human terms exactly what I need to read at exactly the right time! Today as I read your blog He bounced me on my head...I quote from you,... "There are those that have way more education, experience, intelligence; and a better relationship with God than I do who aren't the best ever. I have no clue where I'm supposed to be in life, or what direction I'm supposed to go in. I feel like I'm probably the only one who's still so lost at this late date in my life. Most people I know seemed to have figured out so much at an early age. Why haven't I? Where did I get lost? The only things I know about myself with much certainty are that I have some sort of a gift in written words, that my heart desperately aches every day for a relationship, and that I do feel vastly different from the rest of the planet (which traces back to my Social Anxiety and Bipolar Disorders)." I hardly know how I am to respond to this, except that most of the first sentence are manmade expectations (don't even use them as a measuring because you are much better). Sentence 2 is exactly correct and is why God doesn't reveal everything He does and wants from us ahead of time (He knows we manipulate & whine to get our own way).The rest of these sentences show that you are following one of Gods' most important instructions... prepare yourself (prayer, scripture, fasting) then WAIT on Him to show you how He will use you. I am not sure when I hear someone sure of who they are (in human terms) and what they expect to do or how they expect to be used, are really sitting quietly before God praising, worshiping & WAITING! The 2 diagnosis' you mentioned are sometimes the side effects of an imperfect, judgemental society both can be and should be treated medically but more importantly in prayer. I have to tell you, I must remind myself daily that God uses all kinds of cracked pots! He made us, the sometimes has to crack us to use us. You are not alone on the planet... we're probably in the majority and not yet strong enough to speak out!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for the SparkGoodie, and your wonderful words. You have touched my heart today; when I needed it the most. Thank you seems very insufficient for how much it's helped me today; but I don't know any better or bigger words than THANKS to YOU! Many blessings to you my friend. BIG HUGS!

      Delete
  6. CYCLINGSANDYJune 09, 2012

    God prepares us tondo His work and he prepares us for the job He desires for us to have. He does all things well, if we just listen and obey.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for reading and for the great comments. Many blessings to you. HUGS.

      Delete
  7. MJRVIC2000June 09, 2012

    There is a song we ing,"There Is Balm In Gilead", tat expresss your thoughts:

    Refrain

    There is a balm in Gilead
    To make the wounded whole;
    There is a balm in Gilead
    To heal the sin sick soul.

    Some times I feel discouraged,
    And think my work’s in vain,
    But then the Holy Spirit
    Revives my soul again.

    Refrain

    If you can’t preach like Peter,
    If you can’t pray like Paul,
    Just tell the love of Jesus,
    And say He died for all.

    Refrain

    God Bless You Carley! In His Love! Vic.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Vic, some days I'm not sure how I ever got along without you. You are a blessing for sure. I've never heard this before, but you are so right. It sums up how I'm feeling perfectly. Thank you dearest friend. Many blessings to you. BIG HUGS.

      I found it on YouTube. I listened to a few versions there. this one is my favorite:
      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okl2XbTM7xM

      Delete
  8. AnonymousJune 09, 2012

    May we all learn how to follow God's calling to do what his will would be for our lives. For some of us (aka me), we can be pretty slow learners. I would not have the joy and peace in my life were it not for the relationship I have in Christ. You set a good example for us to follow, Carley. -- Evelyn

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so much Evelyn. As always, you give me such awesome support. It helps more than you know. Many blessings to you, dear friend. BIG HUGS.

      Delete
  9. AnonymousJune 09, 2012

    I read what you wrote and it was from the heart. To speak your mind is awesome that is what God wants from us to be honest, I excepted the Lord at 48 and meant it, but back slid many time until I thought I got it right but didn't, I have to laugh sometimes at myself if I didn't I cry, sometimes I act crasy and don't know why, I know God has to think Juanita here you go again, I repent and don't know why I lost it, but one thing I know God will never give up on me, I been out of work for 3 years now, a fill in here and there because God has provide that job for me, I have no degrees, I know how to care for children, which is my calling, and run households, at 63 I learned leaning on the Lord is what I need to do, He is my all and all, I can do nothing without Him, I know when it is my time I will go through that heavenly gate to be with my Lord and Father, Dear sister my prayers will be with you, God will give all you need, He gives me His strength as He does all His children only if we ask, In His Heavenly Name I pray for all that our in this blog, may the Lord bless all, do enjoy this God filled weekend, peace, love and joy, juanita your sister in Christ,

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Juanita so much for sharing. You've touched my heart. Thank you, also, for the prayers. Living a Christian life is a very difficult life. It can be very painful to let God mould and change us; but looking back on the life I had before, even though I thought I was happy, I wasn't. I don't ever want to live without God in my life again. The enemy keeps trying, and I keep fighting. Thank God for His strength, because I couldn't do it alone. Many blessings to you. HUGS

      Delete
  10. Awesome blog. I love you my wonderful sister in Christ. And like I have said before...what would I ever do without you in my life? <3

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Cindi. People keep telling me these things and I feel so humble. I feel like it's you guys that are blessing me more. I love you too dear sister. Many blessings to you. BIGGGGG HUGZZZZZZZZZzzzzz

      Delete
  11. So true that we are called to spread the good news of Jesus, and make disciples. I am working on journaling on what I want my life to be like 5 years from now. I want it to be filled with teaching my grandchildren about Jesus. I want to lead them to Him and teach them about His love and His death for their sins. And teach them to tell others about it also. Blessings to you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for sharing Ravyna. You have wonderful goals. Writing them down is a very good thing. I've been wanting to do that myself and I keep putting it off with the excuse that I'm too busy. Maybe it's time I stop talking about it and do it. Thanks for the inspiration. Many blessings to you. HUGS.

      Delete
  12. CORINNAHONEYJune 11, 2012

    Way to go Carly. Keep telling it like it is
    Woo Hoo. Hugs. Great!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so very much for the great feed back. It helps to keep me inspired. Many blessings to you. HUGS.

      Delete
  13. MAGGIMAY88June 11, 2012

    Carley...
    I always enjoy everything you write. You are such a blessing.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so very much for the great feed back. It helps to keep me motivated. Many blessings to you. HUGS.

      Delete
  14. POETLKNG2LOSEJune 11, 2012

    I totally feel like that now. i am completely under qualified for anything out there. Someone else i know thinks he is over qualified. There is no happy medium; only God accepts us as we are.
    Sometimes i don't even like myself as I am.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for reading, and thanks so very much for the feedback and for sharing about yourself. God loves you just the way you are. He does want more for you though. We just have to listen for His voice. It's hard sometimes to know for sure if it's His voice or our own or the enemy. But in the quiet still moments, I can usually tell that it's him. I've just read a book by Joyce Meyer called "How to Hear from God". It's great. There's a lot of insight and advice in there. Many blessings to you, and remember God loves you and so do I. HUGS.

      Delete
  15. GOD is working through you in an amazing way! Your gift is encouraging and uplifting. The Holy Spirit shines brightly in your words and I pray you continue to touch lives through your trials and the grace GOD gives you!

    GOD never chooses the person that in their own strength can do the job well because they would boast of their own abilities but it is the person that is not qualified that he chooses so the glory is GOD's!

    Very grateful GOD directed me to your blogs!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so much. I am so often humbled by the response that I get from my readers. God is using you to help me as well. Being humbled is a wonderful thing. I am thankful to God for you. Many blessings to you. I invite you to sign up to follow my blog, if you haven't already. HUGS.

      Delete