Dear Bridgette,
I didn’t get a big promotion at work, something I really felt was my destiny and I was called to apply to. I’m confused and a little hurt. How do I get over my anger?
Thanks for taking my question!
First of all, if I begin by spouting off platitudes about God’s plan etc etc, you’ll probably roll your eyes and think: thanks for nothing, lady! But honestly, the most important take-away here must come first…God loves us and is always working towards good in our lives.
“And we know that all things work together towards good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28
But here you are, in the wreckage of disappointment, thinking: “but this job was perfect for me! I thought this WAS the plan. Gahhhhhh!!” Been there. Done ALL that. I’ve suffered several soul crushing WTF Lifetime TV moments in my past 40+ years on this planet. And all the accompanying anger. What pulls me out of it (eventually) is embracing the truth that I don’t know everything. I can’t see what’s ahead. Only God can. And God is in control.
And because He’s in control, there is NOTHING that God can’t redeem. There’s no wrong turn too steep or mishap too tiny for God…He has a plan for that “plot twist”, and when you change directions again, He has a plan for that too. So the reality here is that although you thought you were called, you weren’t. (Ouch.) Ultimately, it wasn’t God’s will for you right now. Maybe this situation was like you on training wheels, preparing for the real deal. Or maybe your character is supposed to grow and change from this experience, to enhance future-you’s ability to tackle your true calling. Only God knows. However…remember this verse from the Bible:
“I have come so that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:10
Other translations say “…and have it to the full”, which I feel is an easier image to hold in one’s mind: living life to the full. What does that mean to you? Not settling for the mediocre? Living life with joy? How about simply not living life in dread or monotony?
I love this verse because I find it centers me around Christ’s redemption of our lives. Jesus gave everything so that I can have life and have it to the full. God said no to the good thing you wanted so you can say yes to the great thing He wants for you. Perhaps this job could’ve been good, but it’s small potatoes compared to God’s ultimate vocation for you.
So how can we get over anger and turn our hearts to hope again? Talk to Jesus. Give Him your anger, your hurt and your suffering. He knows suffering. Ask for healing. Ask for comfort. Spend time in His Word, fortifying God’s promises in your heart. Ask for an increase in your faith and trust in Him, which is the root of hope. In humility, turn it all over to God to fix. His mercy and love surpasses all.
For your recovery period, check out our last post on dealing with the highs and lows of life. Hugs!
So perfect!