How can I be an encouragement to those who have wrongly lost jobs?

on Oct 8, 2025

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: The workplace has been tough for many, particularly since COVID-19 shut down the world. I try to employ as many people as I can, but I can’t hire the whole world. How can I be an encouragement to those who have wrongly lost jobs? – W.L.

A: Losing a job can be a very traumatic experience. When people get cut from the workforce in difficult times, it can have a serious psychological effect. Most people depend on being hired by others, and when the job market is limited, it brings despair.

However, there are times when what seems a discouragement is a blessing in disguise. Losing a job may lead someone into an entirely different type of work. People should be open to the possibilities of considering going a different direction. Often, this is God’s way of setting people on a new pathway.

We can be encouragers by pointing people to God, no matter the problem, acknowledging His provision for those who will look to Him as the Source of all things. This can be an important time for spiritual growth.

If a person isn’t a believer in Christ, losing a job could be God’s way of getting one’s attention, opening the way to consider the need for salvation and for God’s direction in life. For those who know the Lord, pray that people will rely on the Lord to reveal the next step in life, because He promises never to leave or forsake us (see Hebrews 13:5).

God intends for people to find satisfaction in work (see Ecclesiastes 2:24), and He knows what happens in each life. Our lives never need to be filled with hopelessness if Christ is at the center. He cares and has a plan for each one who belongs to Him as His child. We can trust Him to make His pathway known, and as doors open and close, listen for the still small voice that speaks through His Word.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)