God is our CHRO at Work Sampel

God provides ahead of storms

The Lord knows ahead of time what storms are coming our way. God has provided through our jobs, to give His children a softer landing during arduous times.

Melissa (not her real name) moved from China to study and work in Singapore. In 2017, a global firm offered her a job in Bangkok, so she relocated, all ready for the new challenge. Two months into her new job, however, she was shocked to be diagnosed with lymphoma. Up until then, Melissa had led a healthy lifestyle without the slightest hint of ill-health let alone symptoms of cancer. According to Melissa, “Death never felt that close. Being in control was a delusion.” 

Melissa returned to Singapore to get a second, third, and even a fourth opinion. Eventually, she decided to undergo chemotherapy in Singapore. The doctors warned that the treatment regime would be harsh with debilitating side effects. She braced for the worst. Not knowing what to expect, Melissa held fast to Psalms 23 and Hebrews 4:12. The peace of the Lord rested upon her from the start to the end of her six-month treatment. Miraculously, Melissa did not experience much side effects. She completed the chemotherapy cycles and made a full recovery! 

During her treatment, Melissa's boss travelled from Thailand to visit her and even assured her that the company was awaiting her return. Her job was secure. This was God’s grace as she was still under probation. She was also blessed with an international medical insurance that paid for all her medical expenses! Had she stayed in her previous job in Singapore, she would not have had such comprehensive insurance. After her treatment, her boss graciously approved her request to work remotely from China while she recuperated and spent precious time with her parents. 

God knew a terrible storm was heading toward Melissa. In His great mercy opened the doors to a job that provided greater insurance coverage and a supportive management. A disaster was turned into a blessing. God restored Melissa not just physically, but also emotionally and spiritually as she deepened her faith in Christ. The process tested her faith in God, but God took care of it all. Wouldn’t He do the same for you if your desire is to trust Him? 

Questions for reflection: 

1. Do you trust that God is sovereign? 

2. Have you seen instances of God’s hand on your life, where He providentially protected and provided for you through your work?

May we be moved to thank God for his provision and protection, even for those times and seasons where we are not aware of His safeguarding