Testimony - Ed Aguirre

Art and BTN,

I have a job offer with IBM. I have an Aug start date. I count it a joy to offer praise to God. Thank you for your service and please feel free to share the following.

Asking my wife and trusted friends, what I should do after 7 jobs in 7 years. I had many questions and certainly confusion. There have been tears but by God’s grace there has been laughter.

This latest cycle of unemployment lasted 14 months. If I could suggest and this can be easier said than done, the # 1 priority is to do all you can to do is to have your identity in Jesus Christ. Nothing will prepare you better to take on a trial (this can also be a trial of prosperity) regardless of the duration better than having a dependence on our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. Nothing!

Regardless of having a job or not, man or woman, single or married, God has a calling for each of us. Husband or wife, son or daughter, we are called to be good stewards of our time and resources. We are called to subdue the earth and everything in it. To be diligent, resting at night,  to prepare for the next day’s work. As employees, employers, house wives, mothers, students or where ever God has us. We can place a high priority on God’s Word for who we should be in Jesus Christ. Consider using all God has blessed each of us with to pursue our calling. In my experiences, I can  suggest a few key reflection points as I Praise God for every trial. James 1: 2-4.

PRAISE GOD

P for Prioritize  -  #1 keep your identity in Jesus Christ and the good news of the Gospel – we are born again in the Holy Spirit. Ex 29:46

R is to  Remember  -  To be Humble. God wants to reveal things to you! Some of this may be hard. Pro 22:4

A is for Always  -  read the Bible, be hungry for what God can reveal. This can come in revelations, a vision, other people (including non-Christians)…. Luke 8: 15

I is to Insure  -  Seek accountability of 3 -5  very trusted friends (can include professionals but they must know your faith).  Be very very honest with yourself and them. A spouse should be at the top of this list. They will be your greatest helper.

S is for Salvation  - Know that hope and  joy is always rooted in the “Saving Grace” of gospel. Do you really believe that this is the greatest gift. What joy! Rom 15:13

E is for Energy  - Use energy and focus to regularly meet w/people whom you can trust (network, network, network).  This is so profoundly important! Be sure to include many professionals. BTN, CNM, Marketplace Ambassadors, Coffee shop….

G is for Grace  - To Identify any personal skills (gifts) that need attention.  Go find help or ask for help. For fee, or professional as appropriate. Eph 4:8

O  -  is for Others  - Along the journey consider others. Even during this trial, you can be a witness for Christ! This brings glory to God! Heb 12:1

D  is for Discipline  - Learn all that you can to improve yourself.  LinkedIn, Resume, Elevator pitch, Companies you would like to work for, 5 FAB’s, interview and close, practice, role play and repeat, 20-30 hours prep for 1^st interview. Gen 2:15

Thank you all at BTN who continue to serve the body of Christ. You are so dear and I am grateful for your fellowship and care.

Thank you,

Ed