This morning I got off to a decent start after a good night's sleep. I was grateful for the way that God provided a resolution to my dilemma last night and got me to bed on time.

I remembered to wish my wife a happy birthday as soon as she woke up.

Work was stressful for everyone as we were issued an ultimatum and 4 of us were placed on probation to bring up our test scores. We had to do 3 1/2 hours of meetings, take a test (A quiz) that our job depended on, and keep up with the support requests of an 8 hour shift. I tried my best to rely on God to manage my stormy emotions.

At the end of the day I got fired. It was very difficult to walk through it as it unfolded. It was difficult for the fear of what would happen to my family. It was difficult because of the indignity of having to pack my stuff in front of everyone. I tried my best to turn my thoughts to the bright side of things. I thought of how God would get us through it as he always does. I thought of how I could be an example of the power of faith.

When I called my wife I dreaded having to break this news to her. She surprised me greatly by offering immediate words of encouragement. I was even more astonished by her upbeat attitude. She was exactly what I needed.

Despite my best efforts, I couldn't help but feel considerably despondent. I kept watching this and turning it over and had to lay down for a while when I got home.

Later I was at home alone when the phone rang, it was my father-in-law. I wondered why he was calling. I was too busy to answer it. Then I had a random thought of what if he was calling to ask my wife if I was interested in some job that was available. I kinda chuckled at the absurdity of my thought but then it occurred to me that this is exactly the type of thing that God will do for me.

All of a sudden the thoughts of the bright side became truly real and effective. My fears faded and my outlook became highly optimistic. My spirits were exalted!

The rest of the evening went along good but I caught myself griping at the kids a little too disrespectfully at times.

I am looking forward to making confession.
I am grateful that I may have some time to catch up at home.
I am grateful that I will have more time for meetings at my home group.
I am grateful that I was let go Friday & didn't have this hanging over me all weekend.
I am grateful that I will have time for step-work.
I am grateful for the door that will soon open for me.
I am grateful for faith in this low spot.

I resolve to cheerfully capitalize on this as an opportunity to demonstrate God's omnipotence.

Thanks be to God.