Question: How can a believer deal with the feeling of being left out from promotion and career opportunities at work. when it seems everyone else around you at work are being given a chance to improve themselves?
Answer: When a believer feels left out from promotions and career opportunities at work, it can be discouraging and disheartening, especially when others seem to be advancing while they are being overlooked. I know how it feels, I have been there before but God saw me through and opened a great door for me in my career. He will certainly do the same for you, just trust in Him.
Furthermore, the Bible offers wisdom and encouragement on how to handle such feelings and maintain the right perspective in these situations at your work-place.
1. Trust in God’s Timing and Plan
A key biblical principle is to trust that God has a plan and His timing is perfect. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
While it may seem like others are getting ahead, God’s plan for you is unique. Promotion or advancement in God’s kingdom doesn’t depend on human timing but on His divine will. When we align our lives with God’s purpose, we can trust that He will open the right doors at the right time.
2. Work with Excellence as unto the Lord
Instead of focusing on what others are receiving, Scripture encourages you to focus on working diligently and with excellence, as if serving God, not just men.
Colossians 3:23-24 says, “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”
Your diligence and commitment in your work will not go unnoticed by God, even if it feels that way from a human perspective. Genesis 41:9-13; tells the story where the chief butler remembered Joseph and told Pharaoh about him. This narrative highlights how God can bring our good works to the attention of those who can help us.
I decree over you, that God will cause your good works at your work-place to be remembered by those that can lift you up in your job and career, in Jesus Name. Amen.
3. Avoid Comparison and Envy
It’s natural to compare ourselves with others, but this can lead to envy and discouragement. The Bible warns against comparison and envy, encouraging believers to run their own race.
Galatians 6:4-5 says, “But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For each one shall bear his own load.”
Comparing ourselves to others can distract us from our unique journey and calling. Instead, focus on what God is doing in your life and trust that He has a purpose for you.
4. Patience and Endurance in Trials
When facing trials, including career setbacks or feeling overlooked, the Bible encourages believers to develop patience and endurance.
James 1:2-4 says, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
Sometimes delays and setbacks are opportunities for growth and refining, and God uses these seasons to prepare us for greater responsibilities.
5. Promotion Comes from the Lord
Ultimately, promotion comes from God, not from man.
Psalm 75:6-7 declares, “For exaltation comes neither from the east nor from the west nor from the south. But God is the Judge: He puts down one, and exalts another.”
This reminds us that God is sovereign over all things, including promotions. Even when it seems like others are advancing ahead of you, trust that God knows the right time and place for your advancement.
6. Pray for God’s Guidance and Favor
When feeling left out, it’s important to seek God in prayer, asking Him to guide you, provide wisdom, and show you, His favour.
Proverbs 3:4; “And so find favor and high esteem In the sight of God and man”
James 1:5, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”
Pray for God to cause men and women to favour you. Pray for peace, contentment, and clarity on whether you need to take any steps of faith or wait for God to open the right door.
7. Maintain Integrity and a Christ-like Attitude
While it can be tempting to become bitter or frustrated, maintaining a Christ-like attitude is essential.
1 Peter 2:12 (NKJV) says, “having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.”
Keeping a positive, humble attitude, even in disappointment, will reflect Christ’s character in you and testify to others.
8. God’s Favor Surpasses Human Favor
Finally, remember that God’s favour is more valuable than human favour.
Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Trust in God’s direction and favour over human recognition, knowing that His favour opens doors that no man can shut (Revelation 3:8).
Practical Application of these 8 points in your life:
- Seek wisdom from God: Ask God for wisdom on whether there are areas in your work ethic, attitude, or approach that need growth.
- Stay faithful in your work: Continue to work diligently, as unto the Lord, even when recognition doesn’t come right away.
- Pray for those who are promoted: Rather than feeling resentful, pray for your colleagues’ success and trust that God has a plan for your own.
- Remember God’s timing: Trust that God knows when to elevate you and that delays are often opportunities for growth and preparation.
By applying these biblical principles, believers can handle feelings of being left out at work with faith, patience, and trust in God’s plan for their lives.
Remember child of God, “you are a champion, you are a winner.”
God bless you
About The Author
Mrs Edore Sambo is a UK qualified coach (accredited with ILM and EMCC-UK member)
Email: [email protected]
