Sermon:
A. WHAT GOD DOES

1. Remember the division of labor, i.e., we must work as best we can to find a job, while God supplies the job. God does the supernatural by arranging circumstances, planting ideas and guiding you where to look, ask and apply.
2. The secret to God’s leading and answers to prayer: (a) Confessing of sins, (b) Repentance, (c) Yield to God’s will, (d) Commitment to do God’s will, (e) Disciplined follow through.

B. WHAT YOU DO

1. Accept what has happened.
2. Don’t go through the denial phase that it didn’t happen or even “it shouldn’t have happened.”
3. You can’t change what has happened so deal with it!
4. Some reasons why you may have lost your job: (a) Downsizing, (b) Changed their futures, (c) Many good reasons, (d) You didn’t do your job, (e) Tell yourself, “I’m not going to complain, nor am I going to blame anyone.

C. 19 STEPS TO FINDING A JOB

1. Control your emotions. (a) When you suddenly lose our livelihood, it hits you in the ego, pocketbook and in your self-esteem. (b) You are likely to face a junction of emotions – shame, confusion, self-blame. (c) To control your feelings, look at it through God’s eyes: (1) God is in control, (2) He wants to teach you something, (3) You can get a new job, (4) You need to stay positive.
2. Find out your benefits. What is my severance pay? What will happen to my health insurance? How long will my 401k be carried? Do I have vacation time or sick days? Are there any other resources or service offered?
3. Know your rights. Were you wrongfully dismissed? Union workers have a vast number of rights available to them. There may be costs involved in contacting a lawyer.
4. Ask about references. You will have to do some “damage control.” (a) Ask their attitude if called for a reference. (b) A negative confrontation will not get any help. (c) They won’t say anything for fear of being sued – remember, we live in a litmus society. (d) Your boss wants you to leave on reasonably good terms. (e) Calmly discuss your exit. (f) May be a good “teachable” experience for you.
5. File for unemployment compensation.
6. Check health insurance. If your company has 20 or more employees, they must legally offer health insurance coverage. You will have to pay the full premiums if you are going to keep the self-coverage.
7. Your résumé. (a) A document that summarizes your relevant job experiences. (b) Your next supervisor has probably received many résumés; therefore write your résumé for someone who will scan your résumé. (c) Too long, it probably won’t be read. (d) Too short, it probably doesn’t have enough information. (e) Your resume is perhaps your most important “marketing” tool. (f) Resume must include your work history and credentials. (g) Prepare your resume because you believe in yourself, so you can get your next supervisor to believe in you. (h) Don’t volunteer that you were terminated. (i) Don’t play the “blame game.” (j) Do not say anything negative.
8. Make a budget. (a) Take stock of available finances. (b) Plan for absolute necessities.(c) Determine how long your existing money will last. (d) Cut all extras.
9. Plan tomorrow. (a) Make a plan for tomorrow. (b) The worst thing