Thriving Through Career Uncertainty: A Biblical PerspectiveSample

Turning Setbacks into Stepping Stones

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” - Rom 8:28(ESV)

Setbacks can feel like insurmountable roadblocks. They can leave us questioning our purpose, choices, and future. Yet, what if those setbacks aren’t meant to stop us but to shape us? What if the very thing we see as a barrier is a tool in God’s hand to build something better?

Moses is an incredible example of this truth. Raised in the palace as an Egyptian prince, Moses had a privileged life, but when he saw the oppression of his people, he acted in haste and killed an Egyptian. Fleeing to the wilderness for 40 years, Moses seemed to be sidelined entirely from God’s calling. Yet, God was preparing him for something monumental in that time of exile. Moses returned to Egypt and led the Israelites out of bondage, delivering them through the Red Sea and into freedom. The setbacks Moses faced, his impulsive mistake and the years of waiting in the wilderness were all part of God’s plan to form him into the leader he needed to be. What appeared as detours were the very stepping stones that God used to fulfill His greater purpose.

Ruth Bell Graham faced similar challenges, navigating the demanding role of a mother of five and wife of a world-renowned evangelist. Despite constant transitions and the challenges of raising a family while supporting her husband’s ministry, Ruth never saw these obstacles as hindrances to God’s purpose. Instead, she trusted that God used each difficulty to shape her for a greater purpose. She believed that “God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply,” and she held fast to that truth.

In my own life, I’ve faced setbacks that seemed like dead-ends. I had the incredible opportunity to work at Hanson Robotics, only to have the project I was working on shut down due to funding issues. It was a heartbreaking setback, but I have realised that God was using this experience to guide me toward something even more extraordinary. As I wait to fulfil God’s promises, I know that all things work together for good for those who love Him.

What may seem like a setback could be God positioning you for something greater. Trust that He is at work, even when the path is unclear.

Steps of Faith:

• Reframe a Recent Setback – Write down one obstacle you’ve faced and reframe it as a lesson or preparation for something greater.
• Take a Step Forward – Whether it’s updating your resume, starting a new project, or seeking wise counsel, take an action that turns your setback into momentum.

Prayer: Father, help me to see my setbacks as stepping stones. I trust that You are always working for my good. Strengthen my faith in Your promises and help me to trust You more. Amen.

Go Further...

• What setbacks are you facing right now?
• How can you trust that God is using them to shape you for something greater?
• How can you see the challenges you’re facing as opportunities for growth?