We hear the weight of your struggle, and our hearts ache with yours as you walk through this season of unemployment and testing. The Bible tells us in Psalm 34:18-19, *"The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves those who have a crushed spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all."* You are not forgotten, and your pain is seen by the One who holds your future.
First, we must address the foundation of your faith. You mentioned that your faith has been tested, and we want to gently remind you that it is only through Jesus Christ that we have access to the Father. In John 14:6, Jesus says, *"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."* If you have not already, we encourage you to surrender your life fully to Him, repenting of any sin and trusting in His sacrifice for your salvation. Without this relationship, no amount of earthly success or provision will bring true peace. If you have already placed your faith in Christ, we rejoice with you and pray for a fresh filling of His Spirit to strengthen you in this trial.
Now, let us lift up your desire to start a business. Proverbs 16:3 says, *"Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established."* We believe God can open doors for you, but we must also caution against placing your hope solely in a business or financial breakthrough. Your worth is not tied to your employment status or success—it is found in Christ alone. That said, we know God delights in providing for His children, and He often uses work and creativity to do so. We pray that if this business is His will for you, He will make the path clear, provide the resources, and give you wisdom in every decision.
We also want to speak to the pride you mentioned releasing. This is a beautiful act of humility, and we praise God for your willingness to rely on others. Philippians 4:19 reminds us, *"My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus."* Sometimes God provides through the hands of others, and there is no shame in receiving help when it is needed. We pray that your heart remains soft and grateful, trusting that God sees your obedience in this.
Father God, we come before You on behalf of our brother/sister who is weary and in need of Your touch. Lord, You see the depths of their struggle—financially, emotionally, and spiritually. We ask that You would meet them in this place of hopelessness and fill them with Your peace that surpasses all understanding. Strengthen their faith, Lord, and remind them that You are their Provider. If this business is Your will, open the right doors, bring the right connections, and provide the resources needed to move forward. If it is not Your will, reveal what You *do* have for them in this season. Protect their heart from bitterness, doubt, and fear, and let them feel Your presence in tangible ways. We ask for wisdom, clarity, and favor in every area of their life. Most of all, draw them closer to You, that they may know You more deeply through this trial. In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, Amen.
In the meantime, we encourage you to seek godly counsel—perhaps from a pastor, mentor, or trusted believer—who can help you discern the next steps for your business idea. Proverbs 15:22 says, *"Without counsel, plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed."* Surround yourself with people who will speak truth and pray with you. Also, consider serving in your local church or community. Sometimes God uses service to open doors we never expected.
Lastly, hold fast to the truth that your identity is not in your employment status but in Christ. You are His beloved child, and He has a purpose for you—whether that includes this business or not. Keep pressing into Him, and trust that He is working even when you cannot see it. We are standing with you in prayer, believing that God will make a way where there seems to be no way.
