Sometimes, the Lord blesses us in the most unexpected ways.  Such is the case with my new job.  After having worked in retail for the past five years and in IT for the ten years before that, I now find myself using all of my accumulated knowledge in new ways and in a new place.

I was not looking for a new job.  I had actually decided to continue in retail for at least the next year or so simply because my employer was a good one, my hours were regular and the wage was decent.  Truth be told, I was not especially looking forward to another Christmas in retail;  if you are a retail worker then I sympathize with you because you know what I’m talking about, but I was thankful to be employed and I counted my blessings.

And then one day a man walked in the door and I exchanged greetings and small talk with him because I knew him from when I did IT work those many years ago.  He was a local business owner who had used our firm for various services and we remembered each other.  He browsed around for a while and then as he was about to walk back out the door to leave he surprised me with a question.  He said “Are you looking for any other opportunities?”  That, of course, started the conversation that lead me to accept a position with his company.

Needless to say, the past week has been all about getting acclimated and settled in to my new position.  This brings about a special set of challenges that you normally wouldn’t even consider except when starting a new position at a new place.  For instance, learning the telephone number and address of your establishment so that you can give customers the correct information.  Or, figuring out the most convenient place to buy fuel for your car because your route to and from work has been completely altered.  Most days were fun and interesting but one or two were stressful and headache inducing as I struggled to come to grips with all of the new information that I needed to know.

Through it all I have been very aware of the presence of the Holy Spirit watching over, protecting and sustaining me.  Even amid the stressful days this has been the smoothest new job transition that I’ve ever undertaken.  Things have just gone well this week and I give all the credit and glory to my Heavenly Father who is the author of all good and perfect gifts.  (James 1:17)

I acknowledge and appreciate God’s gifts and how abundantly He has blessed me and I will continue to do that as often as possible.  One of my life’s goals is to cultivate a continuing attitude of thankfulness and to not forget how favored I am.  I am here to do His will and my very life is contingent upon His great grace.  Thank you, Lord, for new beginnings, new challenges and new blessings.

How about you?  Have you had any new beginnings that you are thankful for recently?  I appreciate your comments!