Anybody Feeling the Crunch?
Hey, My Darling Ones!
Thank you so much for praying for our Bible study launch last night. God brought us such a great group! Lots of new faces and lots of familiar ones, too. I love a marvelous blend of both! It was my first time to teach in our newly renovated sanctuary. It was so beautiful and the quality of sound was the difference between night and day. I am profoundly humbled and blessed this morning that God would allow me, such a former pit-dweller, to serve a plate of His Word to a hungry soul. The way I see it, I'm a waitress.
Let me also give you a quick reminder that tomorrow is the 15th and you that are part of our Siesta Scripture-memory Team will need to be ready to sign in and give your 2nd Scriptures on that (not this) post. If God hasn't pointed out a specific verse, you are also very welcome to share mine. I'll give it to you tomorrow. You'll know if you should share mine by whether or not it resonates with you as something you personally ("N" in our RENEW acrostic) NEED. Also, Siestas, thank you so much for your encouragement over the mini-tutorial! It built up my spirit more than you could know. You made me laugh over your comments about liking the rough videos because you could see the professional ones any old time. It was refreshing. YOU are refreshing. One last thing about the mini-tutorial. It meant the world to me to see you give so many shout-outs to Sabrina. She and the rest of this happy band of women (and one-lone man) at LPM work so hard. Thank you for always recognizing them. They are family to me. I could not esteem them more highly.
OK, now for how I'd like to hear from you today. I am very concerned about those of you who are suffering ramifications from our nation's current financial crisis. Our unemployment rate is skyrocketing and the threat of further layoffs can be terrifying and demoralizing. I've already begun praying for servants of God who are suffering financial blows but my prayers feel more effective AND DIRECTED if I have some names and stories feeding them. If you are feeling the crunch and could use some powerful Siest-ercession (I just made that up. I made my own self laugh.), please post a comment so we can pray for you! Keep your comment limited to a reasonable one-paragraph length so we can read every single one of them and pray. It will really help if you'll tell us your name and what part of the country (or world!) you are in, but if you prefer to remain anonymous, feel free! I know that we'll all be tempted to write comments back to our Siestas who describe a need but it will be so much easier to use the comments to this post for prayer if we limit them only to the ones making specific requests. Thank you for your cooperation!
You are so loved and welcome here. You have become an extremely important branch of this ministry and all of us here at LPM are honored to be your servants. Keep fighting the good fight of faith, Sisters! Jesus is worthy!
PS. Girls, I've already been reading a number of your needs (over 200 at this point) and praying while nearly bawling. I have become so fond of you that your needs feel like my needs. The Apostle Paul told us that when one part of the body hurts, the whole body hurts. I guess you could consider me the nose on this body. And it is really stinging. And running. I was nearly overcome by the one who is having to lay off 7 people today and is almost physically ill over it. Take heart, all of you! God never prompts us to pray with no intention of responding. It's just not His style. He initiates prayer to initiate action...often first on Earth so that He can view love and obedience at work...then in Heaven where wonders reside then powerfuly descend in Divine timing. He loves you so much. ABIDE in that love. (Which reminds me, I totally loved the comment from the mom that ended with what her three year-old daughter says at the conclusion of her prayers: "Jesus love me, Amen." HE DOES.)
posted by Beth @ 9:55 AM
566 Comments
566 Comments:
THANKS for offering to pray specifically! Our house needs to sell SOON to avoid foreclosure! We'd made about $30,000 "flipping" real estate as a side job/hobby (crazy hobby, not recommended)...anyway, all of it is now gone after making interest payments while waiting on our current house to sell, and it's either the house must sell, or I must go back to work full-time and put our toddler in day care (which I'm willing to do if God should require it, but I really believe He has another way)....we are down to "do we tithe?" or "do we make our house payment?" We've chosen the tithe thus far, figuring God can do more with our 10% than we can do on our own with the 100%...but we NEED Him to sell this house (by the way, there's nothing wrong with the house...it's just the real estate market...we love it and would keep it ourselves if the mortgage weren't so huge). Thanks!
I recently left my 9-5 job to pursue what I believe is God's high calling on my life: to serve others and use my passion for cooking by becoming a personal chef. Of course, the day I gave notice was the day the market completely bottomed out! I'm thrilled to be doing what I love, but my clients are just as affected by the market and one of them told me last week that they'll be unable to fulfill their contract. Please pray that God would bless this new venture and that I would be able to find some affordable health insurance, which I lost when I left my office job. I realize there are many people worse off than I, and humbly appreciate your prayers for my own situation. (Incidentally, if YOU need a personal chef and live in the Chicago area...visit www.myveryownchef.net!)
Dear Beth,
Please pray for me and my family as ones who are feeling the financial crunch. We are self-employed small business owners, so waiting on money to come in is definately something I trust God continually to release to us to meet our obligations. Isaiah 33:6 is particularly a scripture I need right now and is a constant source of strength for me. I do know that my God is faithful and see His faithfulness all the time. Thank you for ministering to us and praying on our behalf.
In Christ,
Kathleen - Mississippi
Thank you Beth for asking about this. I need to remain anonymous for the sake of the people involved and affected, but will you pray for our church right now, specifically for the staff? Due to this economic crisis, giving seems to be really affected and behind and thus we are not on track to make our budget. Because of that, my husband, who is one of several Pastors, came home last night with a great deal of stress and sadness over the proposed staffing cuts that are ahead. The Lord is protecting us right now, but 20 people will be let go and this is certainly not the environment to be looking for a job. Anyway, will you just pray for the leadership who have to make these cuts, for the people losing their jobs, and for the staff remaining who will be picking up all the extra slack? This is not an ideal situation at all, but our leadership has sought the Lord over this and they see no other option, in order to be wise with the resources that are coming in and are projected. Thank you and bless you for lifting our church up. Our economy cannot be trusted, but praise the Lord that HE can be. Blessings on your day!
I may be getting laid-off in the next month or so. I am single, so I could possibly go live with family if I needed to. My current lease is up at the end of March and I know that the timing of both is in the Lord's hands. I need wisdom to know if I should renew my lease, not knowing if I will still be employed or not. I do have peace knowing the Lord will provide for all of my needs!
I second that THANKS for the offering of prayer! My husband and I have a small publishing company...we make children's books! It it so hard right now to run a small business...we need prayer for funds to come through...we are owed monies and no one is paying...we need God's continued divine provision (which has got us this far) and a miracle this year! He can do anything!
Blessings!
Donna (the mom of twin boys)
Beth,
Thank you for your prayers. I have been without a job for 5 months and my husband is in real estate, so you can see the desperation of our circumstances. We have been trying to sell our home out here in California. We definately need your prayers!
Thank you as always for your encouragement and for making me laugh!
Love,
Rhonda
I will take you up on this! Yesterday I received a change in my job - i was removed from my case - I am single, and have returned to grad school to work on a pastoral counseling degree - my job was irritating me but found things to be thankful for...anyhow, it worked for my student life..but often prayed for something else; so, here is my opportunity to see what else is available, that will fit my student life - feel a bit of that "wind knocked out of me" feeling realizing jobs are harder to find much less one that will be more satisfying - sigh, yep, need a new job.... God is faithful, i am looking to Him to meet me here. Thanks all!
Thanks so much Beth for offering this special time of prayer. I'm not sure where to begin but here goes...My husband and I along with our 11 yr old daughter and 3 yr old son live in Cape Coral Florida. My sweet Mike is Associate Pastor at our church. As you know our area is one of the top places for foreclosure and people in our area are really struggling, including our church. They have sometimes had to wait as much as a week to pay my husband. We have been married almost 17 years come May. We have our third (very unexpected) baby girl due on Feb. 23rd.
Our budget is beyond tight as it is (maybe $150.00 left for groceries/gas after bills), and now we'll have the extra expense of a third child to care for. I stay at home with the 3 yr. old. I have complete Medical Transcription training in hopes of being able to do that or something from home to help support the family.
God has been so faithful and has cared for us greatly. Please pray that my husband and I will be sensitive to God's plan for us. One last thing we are also in talks with the IRS about some tax issues we are fighting. We have a lawyer helping us. Please pray for wisdom for our attorney and us and God's favor in this situation.
My husband's main job is his missionary outreach (an internet radio program) that he's been doing for a couple of years now. His financial support has always been small, but enough to cover the expenses. However, one of his main donors has recently notified him that they cannot continue this year. Without that contribution, we now have to decide whether to continue the ministry or not. Please pray for God's direction! Is He telling us to let it go or do we need to tough it out? Thanks!
-Gena in Houston
My hubby has a real estate company and he had to take on a second job working as a restaurant manager. He calls it his "part-time-full-time-job". He is exhausted and we are in a house that is way too expensive (lots are for sale in our neighborhood, so we wouldn't get what we need to for it). I am staying home to raise our kids & homeschool. My in-laws are angry with me because they say I should "help" my husband more by getting a job. We are all tired, stressed, and praying for the Lord to carry us through the famine right now.
It would be a wonderful feeling to know others are praying for my family. I am a stay at home mom, so far things are fine with my husband's job. Other workers under him are beginning to feel the pinch. It seems everyday you hear a different story about layoffs and plants closing down. We are blessed, but there are so many out there that are having troubles. They all need our prayers. Pray for our family as we juggle bills and making ends meet. We have recently joined a church and are trying to put tithes into our budget. It is very hard to feel torn between bills and tithing to the church. We are new at this and need help understanding it. How do you face the guilt of not tithing fully but making payments on cell phones, tv, etc...I need prayers to help me to be confident that God will provide if we remain faithful to Him and tithe the full 10%.
Thanks and many blessings to you!!
Jessica
Tennessee
Thank you for this post. I have to tell 7 people today that their jobs are being released. I am so stressed and broken hearted over having to do this. My stomach is in knots and I'm just praying the Lord will speak his kind, graceful words through me today.
I live in Wichita, Kansas and work in the aerospace industry. Our city is facing massive layoffs at Beechraft, Cessna and Boeing.
My husband and I do feel the crunch. My work hours were cut and prices have gone up lots here. We've had to make adjustments by cutting costs where we can. I don't want to start a pity part for myself because in light of the starvation in other parts of the world I'm rich. I'm trusting God, but would like a little extra prayer for faith when the bills come due. Money seems to be on my mind a lot lately and I hate that.
I'm going anonymous with this one. PRIDE?! Ugh!
Oh how I can relate! My husband is a pastor, and we were between ministry positions for the last year and a half. We used ALL our available savings to stay afloat, and he had to work three jobs to make ends meet. Really, only God made the ends meet for us. It was SUCH a difficult time, both spiritually and financially, and I began praying that God would lay a specific Bible Study on my heart to pour myself into (for sanity). He directed me to "Stepping Up." On my first day I wrote down this quote from the intro. session: "By the time we're done we'll be moving on to the next adventure with God...To go someplace we've never been." I'm thankful and happy to report that's exactly what happened. In fact, TWO WEEKS after I completed those "Psalms of Ascent," my husband was called to his new ministry position. God had brought us to the end of our valley--financially and spirtually. We relocated to a brand new city where my husband is on staff full-time again...doing what God called him to do. I've already seen the purpose in our struggles, as several families in our new church are beginning to lose their jobs. God allowed us to suffer first, so that we could truly empathize and minister to our new church family. For those of you suffering now, trust Him, trust Him, trust Him! He will provide! Fight the good fight!
We own a small auto repair shop in Bend OR. We pray each morning for the Lord to bring enough work for the day. We have three employess and we don't want to lay them off. Each of them have families to support as well as our own. How does one live with themselves when they have to give that sort of news to dedicated-good employees. We are literally taking it car by car-job by job. We see the Lord's blessings everyday when we close out the day and say "look at the work the Lord has brought". Where will we go from here, only the Lord knows but he has giving us the promise of Galatians 6:9. A plan to prosper and not harm. It may not be our plan but the Lord will provide in some way for us and our employees. The economic downturn has been a huge witness to our (non-believing) employees as we continue to say "The Lord is providing your paycheck boys, not us!" Thank you for your prayers and we will continue to seek the glory of the Lord everyday. As my 3 year old daughter says at the end of her prayers....Jesus Love Me, Amen
Beth,
You are such a blessing. I was laid off over a year ago from a well known copier company, I'll leave it there, and haven't been able to find permanete work. I've been able to find temporary work as a subsitute teacher in my local school system, which is such a answer to prayer already because I was without anything for a year. As a single women, I need something steady and with bennifits. I currently have now health care coveage at all.
Stephanie
Cartersville, GA
I'm Jennifer from TN and I'm a single working mom, so I would appreciate the prayers. I have a job, so I'm thankful for that, but it doesn't pay much and it's so hard to make ends meet (especially with prices going up on everything). I'm trying to look into careers and see what I might be able to go back to school for, but it's hard because I need to have time for my daughter also. So I guess I need prayer to go in the right direction and also for my finances. (Negative balance in my account today and two bills that will have to wait.)
My husband was laid off last Friday from a job God blessed him with for a season (5 months). He is eligible for unemployment (thank you, Precious Lord) and I'm blessed with full-time employment with a great firm. We are so much better off than many being hit like this and for that I give thanks. My husband is struggling with "Believing God" and trying to identify his purpose, and has for a good while now. He has had many bad experiences with employment over the years and the enemy seems to continually battle him with his emotions and self-esteem. I pray first for inner healing for him and that he once again finds the joy of his salvation and get into God's word and hear what God would say to him. Secondly, I pray that I'll be who and what God wants me to be in this, and finally, for employment for my man. God is faithful and will complete the work He has started. Through it all, we will be stronger in our faith and relationship, because "there ain't no high like the Most High!" See you Beth, in Greensboro, N.C., this coming July.
YES...please...Prayer.
I am working for Baker Hughes as a contract graphic designer and was suppose to go full-time the first of this year or the first quarter.
Well, they are not going to keep me or hire me at Baker Hughes and my last day for contract will be on the 30th of this month. :(
This contract work came through an agency I am working with called "The Creative Group". They placed me here back in August 2008.
As far as know it has nothing to do with my work just cut-backs. I have 2 other agencies I'm in contact with that place artists. So, I will need work after this month!
Thanks.
Allison
What I am currently experiencing is being unemployed due to recurring clinical depression. I am waiting on a Social Security Disability hearing (probably will be in April). It is SUCH a long, long process. Please pray for my peace surrounding all of this, and for God's will in everything. Thanks very much!
Lori
Arkansas
Dear Beth,
Thank you so much for this post. I was hit with the crunch on Dec 8th, 2008 when my former employers asked me to meet them for breakfast and I did we order our food and while we were waiting they told me I no longer had a job with the company due to finances (I was overhead). But putting that all aside because I gave all the anger and hurt over the my Lord and Savior and he has been good and taken it all from me. I am a single lady and my only income. I have applied for my unemployment and was approved last week just having to wait on the first check which I have no clue when it will be sent. Possibily next week. I appreciate your prayers very much. As for right now God has made what little money I have go a long ways for the last month. Bills are coming due again and I know HE will provide.
But I must say last week while I was at our local career center I was watching all the people that was coming in to apply for unemployment and try to find a job and I was sadden for them. I know I am in that boat with them but I have my Lord to provide and I don't know how many of them did. So many sad faces, so many walking away with nothing. Lots of people looking for work but no work for them. My prayer is for those out there that are hurting spiritually and financially.
The one thing I can say I have been blessed to be able to spend more time with my Lord in His Word and in study than I have in awhile and I am loving it.
Thanks again
Becky Lawder
Attalla, AL
I just posted about it last night, and the story is on my blog over the past few weeks. Barring a mighty work of God, we will be filing chapter 13 bankruptcy in the next few weeks. We need much Siest-ercession. With humble thanks. Holly
My husband flips houses for a living and I am a stay at home mom with a work-at-home part-time job. Since the real estate market is null and void we need houses to SELL!! God has always been very faithful to us and blessed our business. He always provides for our needs. Jon (Hubby) is currently looking for a job, so please pray God will provide Jon with a job that is in accordance with His perfect will! Thank you so very much!
So far, so good with my family. My son was hoping to move into his first apartment, but because he is not sure of his job security, he will stay at home for a while. My prayer need would be for patience while he is still at home, because I was SO ready for him to fly the nest.
Oh my goodness, how I would be honored if you'd pray for me and my family!
My husband had a dream of owning his own small business and started one eight years ago. It hasn't gone well AT ALL but he refuses to give up the business. I'm trying to be a good wife and not nag or place my will above his, but it is SO hard. I haven't had health insurance for over 8 years and I desperately need to be on antidepressants...but I go without. I haven't seen any type of doctor in ten years. I'm scared and feel unbelievably helpless. Oh, and we owe the IRS somewhere in the neighborhood of $25,000 and counting. I am beyond my wits end and yet my husband won't change anything.
Sorry to go long. I have held the desperation in for so long and love the thought of someone actually praying for me! Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Missy
Toledo, Ohio
Oh yes, we're getting crunched here. My husband works as a construction contractor (insulation and waterproofing) and his business has dried up to nothing, so we are basically living on my income, while trying to cover the bills to keep his business afloat. It's tough!
So glad to hear the Bible Study was awesome. Thank you Jesus!
Much love,
Adrienne
Thanks. My husband has lost 2 jobs in one year. He has one now that pays less and doesn't have an insurance plan. I would like to work, but am waiting until my son returns to school full time--he had back surgery. We are trying to sell our home too. Would so appreciate prayers for wisdom in decision making,for our home to sell and for us to be good stewards. We appreciate it. In Indiana---
So many Siestas are already praying for me and my family but I am going to jump in with my request. We need Siest-ercession. (love your word. lol)
I have not been able to work for 6 years now since my surgeries from cancer. My sons and I live with my brother and have for a few years. Two weeks before Christmas my brother was laid off and although he has his resume posted everywhere and some leads have come in, nothing has come of it.
We are in need of prayer. His name is Barry.
I cannot share that w/out sharing this: A week ago my brother told me after he paid the house payment that he was out of money. I began praying that day and night. The next day he recieved a letter from his former company stating they had made another deposit in his account. Praise God! It was enough to pay a few more bills!! He is Faithful!!
Thank you so much for posting this and thank you to all who are interceding! I am praying for your requests to!
Love,
Patty
Thanks so much for asking! Last week I was thinking, should I ask for prayers or not and now I know I can. We here in Europe are experiencing the crisis really hard. Especially now as the Russian/Ukraine fight has blocked all natural gas coming in. Some countries like Bulgaria, Serbia and Bosnia have been without heat for a week already and we are having a very cold winter. Here in Croatia we had some reserves but we only have for 2 more weeks and it takes 3-5 days to come once they settle the dispute. Please pray for them to resolve the dispute this week, that we might not go without heat. Thank you sisters (I feel sometimes alone out here and this site has totally touched my heart. I am thankful for you!)
Thank you so much for praying specifically for our families' needs. Very LONG story short, over the past four years, we adopted three beautiful boys (two bio brothers and one Asian angel). God is good!!! It is truly amazing how God provided for us to bring these children home (two trips to Russia and one trip to China)- still amazed;) Our third child has special needs and will need surgery repair for a tessier cleft and lower eyelid ectropion.
I recently went part time AND LOVE IT, but due to state funding cuts my postition could be terminated soon. We still have much debt to pay off (I have a second part time job a couple of nights a month to help with this) but really need a steady income to pay off our debt. Please pray for wisdom and discernment for me and my husband to achieve the FINANCIAL PEACE our family so desperately needs!!!!
My husband & I are making it financially, but our eldest daughter who is married & has 2 pre-school aged children is close to bankruptcy. Her husband missed an entire year's work due to a work injury & had NO income during this time. She missed months of work due to illness during an unexpected second pregnancy. Then the recession! I AM SO CONCERNED ABOUT HER. It has taken a huge toll on their marriage & on her parenting. We need a miracle!
Diana
I would so much love your prayers! We are facing filing for bankruptcy soon. The worst of it is that it is because of our own foolish choices. It truely is our own fault and I don't see bankruptcy as a right choice either, but our back is up against the wall, we can't pay back investors we owe. I am so ashamed and embarrassed my close friends don't even know. Thank you so much for letting me tell you all, and even more for your prayers. What a wonderful safe place this is! Small prayer = sell company building and equipment so we can pay back investors. Big prayer = change our hearts O God!!!!!!!!
THANK YOU!
I am single-30-something and was laid off last week. Several of my friends are in the same situation. I believe God has a great plan for me and in the words of my Mom "this is no surprise to my Creator". I have been memorizing Is 33:6 and didn't know what that verse would mean to me when I started w/ it on 1/1 - but oh, it has great meaning now!
Also, I was at Bible Study last night and really enjoyed a full plate of the Word! I'm a teacher in my Bible Study at 2nd and am in a season of personal growth/learning and that was just what I needed last night! Thank you for your obediance and desire to share with your Siestas!
Money is super tight around our home. Today we cut our television cable off (not a bad thing considering all the filth on the airwaves)and our oldest daughter's tution for this semester at college is due. We have a mountain of debt (from our own making, wants instead of needs) but we still have a home and my husband has some job security. We need prayer for strength to be obedient in our spending so that we can get rid of our debt. Thanks!
Deb S.
Glen St Mary, FL
Beth:
Thank you for praying over my home and job. We had to take a 10% paycut starting in January and if things don't get better then we will go to 4 day work weeks. Now it comes down to really crunching the numbers as I am a single mom of a teenager. No child support really to speak of... But I am trusting in Him that he will provide all the finances I need to continue to make bills and keep a roof over our heads.
Loving you for praying for me.
Lichelle
We are self-employed. The husband sat me down to see the year end report. Not good. We are trying to live carefully and with wisdom but Satan uses finances in our life to attack and discourage us. Please pray for us to remain faithful in our tithe, be able to make our payments and for God to prosper what my husband puts his hands to. Thank you.
Oregon girl
Thanks for being there Beth. Even though most of us don't "know" you we feel like we do because you're always right there in terms of relevant questions and issues. I know that's God prompting you and we are grateful beneficiaries. I retired nearly two years ago only to see my 40lK lose two-thirds of its value literally overnight. Talk about a sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach! I used to check on the progress of that investment from time to time, now I can't bear to look. God is good and this won't ruin us, but it certainly changes things mightily. Pray for peace and reliance on God trusting in Him and not our bank balance.
My husband and I are having trouble making ends meet with the rising cost of groceries, gas, utilities, the list goes on. We continue to keep God at the forefront of our lives and trust that He will provide. Life is still stressful though. Thank you for praying for us.
K & S Crawford
Thanks so much for offering this....I would greatly enjoy praying for each of the people leaving comments- we can all use the extra prayers.
We are a family of 5, both my husband (Computers) and I (teacher) work, but when we moved to TN we had an apartment payment and our old house payment, on top of student loans and other debit, we blew through what savings we had and took on more debt. Now, we are trying to get it all paid off and be strict about or budgets, but with the rising prices of food, gas, daycare and after-school care, we are stretched thin. Just prayers for us to stick with it and adjust our lives to meet our goal of paying things off would be much appreciated.
Thank you, Beth. As you know our situation is a little different. we are not so much worried about our jobs as the possibility of having to cut the hours of some of the wonderful people that work for us and help us care for our monastery (maintenence men, groundskeepers, kitchen staff, nurses for our elderly sisters). Our finances like many others have suffered in the recent months.
We, too, are praying for all those who are struggling.
Thank you for the Sies-tercession!
love to you!
Sister Lynn
Thanks for rallying the troops to pray for needs! In June we went on staff at a church in Indiana. In October the church split. Even after multiple pay cuts, in April they could no longer pay the staff. We continued thru August unpaid but have now left for other reasons. For the first time in almost 25 years my husband is not in full time ministry. Pray for him as we wait for God to open a door.
Thank you so muchfor this post, I came on this site to try to post something on prayer, Our church is in a crisis. We have a fairly new building and a very large debt. Our Pastor of 3 yrs resigned in Nov, and we love and miss him dearly. I know God is the head of our church but it is still hard. We have only had one applicant, he called and said this was not were God wanted him, we were realived, now he called back and wants us to vote on him. The board wants him due to our financial stability. But I truly believe God is in control and if this is the man for us, we would know please, please pray for guidance, We need a God Thing!!
I feel like a dripping faucet in God's ear I have prayed so much about the sale of my business. I am in business with a family member and consider myself unequally yoked. You can't quit your job when you own the place, and there aren't many buyers out there right now. I pray for God to free me from my Eqypt, and I promise not to gripe about the manna.
Is it too late to sign up for the scripture memory? I would love to join.
My husband works for a supplier for GM. We are directly affected by the decisions made for or against THE BIG THREE. Philosphically we do not agree with the bail out. Pragamatically- it is going to happen. They (the government) do not have plans for any of the smaller companies. Thus, cutting a break for the giants and feeding the littles to the lions. Please pray about CZAR. It isn't good. God's favor and His hand has been on us! Thank you for being sensitive. Thank you for praying!
Well, I am fine but there is someone I would like you to pray for -- "Destry and his family." Destry built my house (fortunately, in 2007) and he astounded me because he was so,SO honest and helpful -- a true Christian. Anyway, he is suffering financially now, and his wife is expecting a baby in June.
Thank you for praying so specifically! My name is Austin and I live in Raleigh, NC. I got laid off from my job back in June 2008, and I am still on the job hunt. Please play that the right opportunity will come soon! After almost 7 months of no job the anxiety starts to kick in! Again, thank you for praying!
Ironically, our story is much like the other Kristie. My husband took a job 1 hour and 15 minutes away and we have been trying to sell our house for almost a year. We either need to refinance or sell soon. I am a stay at home mom and my husband a school teacher. We have 3 children two and under so it seems better for me to stay at home rather than put them in daycare. We really thought God was telling us to move, but now we are not so sure since the house isn't selling. As teachers, it is time to begin making plans for next year so we need to know what He has in store for us and for us to make the right decision.
Thank you so much for wanting to take time to pray for us! I am out of work, but God is using this time to fill me and use me and show me what He has next for me. Pray that I will be obedient with my time and TRUST AND BELIEVE HIM!! That is really what this is all about for me. To trust Him daily to meet my needs. Pray that I will have what I need to make it day by day.
Thank You again.
Shawn, Georgia
My husband and I are retired, and I'm working very hard to completely understand our finances after 30 years of my sweet husband shouldering that burden alone. I want to give more than we ever have, so please pray for guidence there.
My darling daughter, a very happy stay-at-home mom, needs to go to work part-time. Please pray for the perfect job for her, one that will be what God wills for her and her family.
Catherine
Orlando, FL
Beth:
My husband is the financial counselor for those in our church Since I am married to "Mr. Budget" I have many women come to me and tell of how their family is suffering. They desire so much to be out from under that heavy bolder of debt. I am asking for prayer for all the counselors who want to give Godly financial advise and direction. Sometimes this line of work can be discouraging due to the length of time it takes to see victory. And sometimes people give up because there is no quick fix. It takes time and diligent effort. God Bless you Beth and LPM!
I am so gald that you suggested this prayer request post. The Lord has been dealing with me to start a women's prayer group but I really didn't know how to get it started.
There are so many need and I am one!
Blessings to everyone~
jan floyd
Keller, TX
My husband has been without a paycheck for 14 months. He is self employed and people he has worked with haven't paid or they continue to back out of wanting to grow their companies due to fear related to the tough economic times. I think companies are dropping anchor and waiting out the storm. We have to much debt in our lives and really would like to get rid of it but thats hard with no income. He is presently looking at working on staff with companies, but many aren't hiring due to cut backs. I would like to stay at home with our 4 children but I am open to working if that is our only option. Our mortgage is more than our house is worth so we can't sell that either to make ends meet. I just started Experiencing God, so my eyes are open and I am expectant we will see Him. Thanks! Kim Minnesota
I'm a 40+ single mom of a son and been on disability since he was born. I've been searching in vain for a part-time job to supplement my disability without interfering with my son's schedule as I want to be there for him before and after school. It's been frustrating as I don't have recent job skills, just classes I took. I just need direction and purpose in my life. Thanks. I live outside of Houston.
Beth, so far things are good with me and my husband. Praise God.I would love prayer for my sweet middle daughter. She is pg with her 3rd child, which was a HUGE surprise. Has a 4 yr old and a 18 mnth old. Her husband is a coach and a very good one, but educators don't make much $ in MS...Sarah is a dental hygienst but the dental office she has been working in has cut her down to one or two afternoons per week and none of the other dentists are hiring. They just cannot make it without her having a steady income. They are very faithful to tithe. She is considering getting a teaching certificate, or maybe applying for a job as a secretary at their church. Please pray that God would just show them what He would have them to do in this situation. She called me to say that she knows God is working. She deparately needed some maternity clothes and a new friend at church offered and brought her a whole box of very nice ones! Sarah is my child who is the same age as your Amanda and was married on the exact same day as Amanda and Curt. Thank you SO much for your wonderful ministry..you will never know how much you have blessed my life!! Martha in MS
The company my husband works for declared bankruptcy today. We do not know yet what this will mean for his job specifically. I work so his income is not 100% of our total but we had agressive debt reduction plans for this year in preparation for getting pregnant so it's not good timing (but then again when would it be?). Thank you for praying. We are in North Carolina.
Oh my, I so needed to read this because it's been so hard to ask people to pray.
I lost my job when the company I worked for went under LAST MARCH. I cry just writing that. At the end of the month, I will have used up my savings and retirement and I don't know what to do. I've tried EVERYTHING. Thanks for praying.
Jera - Nashville
It's so reassuring to have siestas from all over praying for our specific needs. Thank you.
I am pregnant with our second child and the "crunch" is causing hubby and I to seek wisdom (always a good thing) as to whether I can stay home or not this coming year with my little ones. My heart's desire is to be a stay at home mom for the first year (I had the privilege for my son's first year), but I know that I may have to work full-time in order to keep our home. Thank you for praying.
I would also like to say thank you.
I'm getting ready to lose my job, and my income is necessary for us to stay in our home as well. I trust that God has an amazing plan for us, but I am not sure yet, what direction he is leading us in.
Tiffany in Oklahoma.
Oh thank you for doing this! We are feeling the crunch BIG TIME. My hubby (unsaved hubby for that matter) works with the stock market and needless to say it is painful to watch his stress level. My heart cries out for him. I am able to go through this with a sense of peace that whatever happens is ok. God always is there and always provides. He is my comfort and my strong tower! I have been leaving my hubby scripture on his computer for the last 4 days (God told me to) so I am praying it will bring him to the Lord and that he can FINALLY have the peace and love he so desperately needs. I am finishing school and trying to find a job too! YIKES!
Oh I love you all so!
Jennifer
Lutz, Florida
Thank you so much for offering your support through prayer. I cannot tell you how thankful I am for LPM! My family just recently moved to California for a job relocation. Many people in this small little town of Vacaville are in financial trouble for many reasons: loss of employment, loss of retirement savings, loss of house. Please pray specifically for Vacaville, CA. For people to believe and trust GOD, for GOD to provide comfort and relief to those struggling financially, for the community to come together to support and encourage one another. Thank you again for your prayers!
Abby
Thank you SO much for your prayers. To keep in line with your occupation as a waitress - please put a lot of cream and sugar in this prayer.
I am in sales, with a salary based on 100% commission. While my husband and I have been incredibly blessed - I find myself worried about when the shoe will fall. I want to live out the belief that God's supply isn't dependant on the worldly economy (for heaven's sake - even as I write this - I KNOW He is Lord of All, economy included). BUT - as we read the papers and hear the depressing news- it's a struggle to keep taking that next step in faith. Plus (and yes, this is serious) - I don't want to have to give up new purchases i.e. new spring fashion, shoes, purses. God give me discipline! Boy- sorry for the rambling.
To make this short and sweet, my husband and I are going throgh some tough times financially and it has taken a toll on our marriage. Please pray for us.
Thank you for praying. My husband was out of work for over six months. We lost our house to foreclosure. He is now working two full time jobs plus a part time student ministry job. We have two young children and for the first time in over ten years I am not teaching in a private school due to the change in the economy. We are currently in a hotel trying to save up money for deposits to rent a house we found that has been sitting empty for a while. Please pray that somehow God will provide this for us this week. My children are struggling so much and just need to be "home." Thank you.
Dear Beth &Siestas,
My prayer request is for God's complete healing of my DH. After he went through a battle of lymphoma(3.5 yrs);all praise to the Lord!His left shoulder is in extreme pain and a week before Christmas he had cateract surgery. We have been unable to work. So payments are behind and I am asking the Lord Jesus to reach down His merciful hand for deliverance. I want my life to honor Him and be a good steward, but I feel like our circumstances are overwhelming me. I just want most of all my husband healed and my children(1 adult & the other soon to be) walking with the Lord. This clay pitcher has already been broken and trying to let her light shine. I need a breakthrough.
Miriam,MS (Colossians3:23)
After seeing them lose 40% and 36% over the past 12 mths respectively, we've pulled the kids' college funds out of the market. Since they even lost below our initial investment, there was no penalty (small comfort). But, we're thankful that our two are young and that we can put it into other areas to grow before deciding to try again.
Butterbean in Georgia
God was leading me to hear from you all today -- I was able to stay home a little longer than normal this morning and so I caught your bible study on the television -- it was just what I was needing to get me out of bed. It also prompted me to visit the blog today - I have so little time during the week to check in, but today, I guess I was looking for a word just for me. Thank you for making yourself "live" and available through this blog - for me, I really feel like I have a life-line.
I suppose we are similiar to the rest of our nation in that we are checking and re-checking our budget to find ways to cut back, looking for things to pay off early -- just in case one of us loses our job. It is exhausting to look at our income and how much is going out with the noticeable price changes in groceries and gas...not to mention my husband had a salary cut just a few months ago that we are still struggling with. We are tithing and I feel an even greater since of giving more somehow through this - I must be honest though, trusting and faith during times like this is so difficult for me. Many, many days I get so overwhelmed that I can't look at our account - we've even begun paying the "important" things like mortgage and car payments one month and trying to catch up on the things we skipped last month (debt we shouldn't have to begin with)...it's destroying our credit, but we have no choice right now. Just doing a budget is a chore because there are no extras. It's especially hard when you have young children who need new shoes, clothes and those extra school things - how on earth can you properly explain to them? At any rate, I certainly appreciate the opportunity to share and be prayed for specifically. I will also be looking at everyone else's needs to pray for you too!!
Things have gotten pretty tight around here. My husband's job depends on the construction activity in Houston (even though he's not in construction). Things have slowed waaaaaaaay down. Overtime has come almost to a complete halt. We depend on overtime to pay down our debt. I've finally gotten him to agree to visit churches around us and find a good home church, but I know he's going to buck that idea when it comes to tithing. It's just hard. I keep waiting for the big turn around our next president is promising. I hope he's right.
Maggie
Beth and Siestas,
Please pray for Courtney, our youth minister's wife. She is currently in the hospital, pregnant with #1 and experiencing difficulties. We got word this morning she will be laid off her job and insurance benefits go with her job at the end of the month. She has now officially been put on bed rest till the baby comes (due in April). Pray that our church will be able to come up with insurance for them and for the baby to be healthy and that he will stay in his mommy's womb a bit longer!
Love you guys more than you know!
We too have a house to sell. We would like to avoid foreclosure - we feel this action would bring shame to the name of Jesus and we want desperately to lift high His name. God very specifically called us into ministry in Colorado and we left our home in North Carolina in obedience to His call. We feel like God has shown us that the enemy is standing between the buyer and the house and we are commanding that the enemy MOVE out of the way - in Jesus Name. We would love for you to join us in this prayer. In the mean time we are asking God to provide for our financial needs for His name sake.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for joining us in this prayer. Praise God for my sisters in Christ!
Oh, Beth your timing as always is God driven.
I am a stay at home mom, and my husband owned his own truck hauling fuel. Dec. 1 he was in a terrible accident that burned his truck to ashes. It is only by the grace of God that he is still with us, and blessedly unharmed. He is the worship leader at our church but it is very part time and pays very little as we are a small church. He has applied for a full time position as a worship pastor. We would dearly love to see him be able to do his gift full time. Above all we want His will. So many of the truths I am standing on as we face this I have learned at your feet. Thank you so much Beth, you have no idea what a help you have been through your studies.
Meghan in Lima, OH
The Lord has truly blessed my husband and me as we have diligently saved during his 6 years in graduate school. So I wouldn't say we are in a financial crisis at this moment. He is 8 months away from earning a PhD and is currently on the market for an asst. prof. position. Please pray for endurance and increased faith that the Lord will provide him a job for next fall. The hiring freezes are astronomical in academia this year and the competition for the few jobs remaining is intense. We could live off our savings next year if necessary but we'd love to wisely put a downpayment on a house and start a family rather than use our savings as our budget. Many thanks for your prayers! - Libby (and Greg) Paul, College Station Texas
We are in debt about $7000 in medical bills. I am a Realtor and things are hardly moving. My husband is a pastor. We are really seeking God for direction on how to pay these medical bills since there is no room in our monthly budget. Much of our budget already depends on the fluctuating RE income and I feel so much pressure right now. Robin in SD
Our son, Matt has been without a job for over a month now. He has a wife, a 17 year old son and a 20 year old daughter, in college and an 8 year old. He desperately needs a job. They are in a crunch! He has a college education but he was one of the ''last hires'' on the job he had and they laid off a number of workers. I greatly appreciate your prayers for them.
Ardmore, Ok.
Thank you for praying!!! My name is Michelle Tabb and my husband is Ronn. He lost his job in August. We are in Nashville, TN. I have been a stay at home mom for the last 10 years. I just got a job yesterday! Praise God. However it is nowhere near enough to cover our nut. So...please pray for Ronn to get work. He worked in the Christian music industry for 14 years most recently in marketing for Word Entertainment. Pray for us to surrender all (including our house if need be) with a spirit of joy. We are trying so hard to persevere through this time walking in faith. Thank you for your prayers.
Our home was just foreclosed and we are in the process of filing bankruptcy as well. We have three teenagers, one of whom is in college. We are independent business owners and re-started our client base a few years ago. As a result the debt grew faster than the income. Thank you so much for your prayers!
I feel a little "greedy" even mentioning a need,but as you said, times are tough all over. I feel like I will be ok financially, but it is at a cost. I am a single parent of five beautiful kids. I'm blessed to be a RN so I CAN find meaningful work The cost is the time I must spend away from my kids. We don't live extravagantly at all, but I've had to take a second job to cover food, heating, and college expenses. My prayer is that I can somehow balance children & work and do a good job at both. I will consciously make an effort to lift up other siestas in these tough times. Thanks for caring..and sharing! Deb in Richmond, VA
Please pray for my sister Laura, her boyfriend Bill and my son's girlfriend Rachel, all three lost their jobs.
My name is Nicole. I live with my husband and three kids in Minnesota. My son has health problems and we've spent a lot of money travelling to get care for him. We currently are late on our house payment with less than $50 to our names. No savings and my husband is self employed with no work left after February. I'm not sure what we'll do as he hasn't been able to find a job. We've recently started tithing which and when you're already negative a few hundred dollars every month it's hard to have faith that tithing is still the right thing to do but we feel like God is not going to bless us when we're giving nothing back to Him so we're trying to remain faithful that He will provide.
Thank you Beth for offering prayers to those suffering from unemployment. Please pray that my husband will find employment soon and for the Lord to encourage him also to look in other fields, not just his prior experience. We know that God is with us but sometimes emotions take over (usually the middle of the night) and panic arises. Please help me to stay calm. We are keeping our eyes on the Lord and truly appreciate your prayers.
God Bless You,
Beth
Austin, Texas
My husband divorced me 3+ years ago and I wasn't too worried because I thought I would have a comfortable cushion by the time I reached retirement so that I could live simply. I have avoided opening my statements this past year, but because tax time is approaching I finally opened my financial statement last week & that cushion has alarmingly and drastically vanished. I am claiming Proverbs 37:25 "I have been young and now I am old, Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his descendants begging bread" and am "casting all my anxiety on Him because He cares for me. (I Peter 5:7)"
This is a praise but we own a small business and as we began to see this economic crisis unfold we knew that it could get bad down here in about a year. VERY scary when you do good to make ends meet and are in marketing (first thing to go in tight times!). To keep this brief our church (which needs MORE marketing in though times) called and offered him a job that was straight from God. We feel His divine protection in this but we had to let go of our business which is so dear to us and such a special testimony. All that is to encourage those facing financial crisis. The Lord will intercede for us but we have to be willing to be flexible and take the good gifts He gives us. Kind of like 7 grain bread, not as yummy as the smooshy white stuff but SO much better for you!
Wow, to know I'm going to be prayed for by all the Siestas here really encourages me.
My husband and I will likely be placing our house up for sale in order to move south where it's more affordable. We're just barely making ends meet where we are now even with his working 2 jobs and my going back into the work force. Please pray for God's wisdom and clear direction in and about this process. The last thing we want is to step out of God's will, taking things into our hands (very dangerous) or to uproot our children (10 & 8) and break their hearts by making them leave friends, etc. This is just not the life we envisioned for our family. We want to be able to exhale a bit.
I can't thank you enough for praying. It means so much.
Melanie in PA
Thank you for your concern! I was unemployed as of January 1st. I was in pharmaceutical sales full time, and my contract just ended. I have three boys and the desire of my heart has always been to be a stay at home mom while my boys are young (ages 3, 8, and 10). Since my first was born, I have been a mixture of stay at home, (praise God) part time, and full time. The financial crunch has gotten to us now and I really need to work full time, or there need to be some major financial changes in our life (which includes some miracles). I am praying for the desire's of my heart to align with God's will for my lifeso I know what I need to do. I am excited to put this in God's hands and see what he has in store for us. Thank you for initiating the memory game. It is already making me feel a sense of peace just putting scriptures in my memory bank!!
I have lost 2 jobs last year and now I am free-lance. The Lord has called me into fulltime solo worship ministry and I am fearful as all get-out! I am paying for my worship album myself right now and do not have steady work. My husband and I are under tremendous stress at the moment from it, but we recognize God's hand is supporting us through it. It is very hard to go from having 2 full time singing jobs for 5 years and then to just free-lance work after that. Please pray that the Lord just helps me get over myself! And get over my fears and walk in what HE has called me to, all the while trusting and knowing HE will accomplish what concerns me! I am doing Daniel right now. Started just today actually all by myself with my CDs and my workbook, and it encouraged me more than you know! Thank you so much, Beth and siestas!
Wow. Thank you for your kind heart.
We're trying to refinance our home from an ARM, have $15K debt after being swindled by a bad company which we've disputed and are PRAYING they will clear us from (they said they'll let us know in the next 30 days... PLEASE PRAY FOR THIS MORE THAN ANYTHING), and more debt from a paid for car that needed a new engine ($7K). On top of that, my ex-husband is $20K behind in child support -- I could easily turn him in to the state to go after his assets, but don't want his family to hate me for it, which they would... I lie awake at night being anxious, even though I know He tells me to "be anxious for nothing".
The scripture memorization is helping so much with my worrying, thank you so much for the prompt to do it...
I'm working for a company that has filed Chapter 11 - which is a legal mechanism for court-supervised reorganization. I believe in our NEW local management team and am excited for what the future holds. I ask for wisdom, guidance and strength. This new team sacrificed a lot to join this company. I found out that our head honcho is a strong believer - along with my VP that oversees the department I'm in. This has brought much comfort not only to myself but many other believers in the company.
I also ask for prayer for those who have retired or near retirement that are unable to collect their full pension (instead only monthly installments are allowed).... We have great employees - 7 employees in my department alone are also believers. Everytime there's an article in our local paper - the consumers get a little riled. I ask for strength and joy for our employees to be strong and confident with a kindness of heart.
In this community its all about relationships. So superior customer service needs to remain strong.
On a side note: IF the company were to go under that would effect nearly 1,500 individuals.
I wish I could share more, but this is lengthy as it is. Thank you for your prayers! Much love and aloha...Linda.
Thank you so much for asking for specifics!!! My husband and I have had to move accross country. He has lost his job of 16 years and we have to sell the house that he grew up in and has been in the family for 50 years. My heart is broken because of it. Because he has been laid off I have had to take a job in Illinois and we lived in Oregon. I have a 13 year old son that I will not see for 6 months. Please pray for his protection.
Thank you for praying for all of us! My little family is a missionary fam relying 100% on support from our church family, friends, etc. God has been faithful and has taken such good care of us, and we ask prayer for the support to continue as so many people we love are affected by the financial crisis. We know other missionaries in the same situation, too. Thank you! Jessica in Guatemala
For the past year my husband has been working in Portland...while I live in Yakima, WA! He works there four days a week and comes home for three day weekends. I hate this and want him home! We have prayed about it and he will start his own business here in the spring, but it's a scary time to be launching something. So, please pray for me, that God will continue to hold me when I'm lonely, strengthen Scott when he's scared and give us the courage to run with abandon down the paths He has prepared for us. Thanks.
Thank you for your personal caring. It makes it so easy for us to love all of you at LPM because you love all of us.
My husband is a self employed painter who has felt the downturn for well over a year now. No construction or at least not much in our area and therefore not much painting going on. We have had enough work to keep going, but winter is here and now with even more construction not happening he isn't working at all. Not many Help Wanted ads in the paper either. I was working, but mid December I was let go. I worked for a roofing contractor and of course again, construction business is down so no new roofs. Also, people really wait until the NEED a new roof before we get a call. They are other roofing contractors in the area competing for the same jobs......so after nine years, I am also unemployed...
WHOHOO!! God is going to work this all out. I turned 62, so I can go on Social Security which I did, so between that and my unemployment, and a retirement allowance from my exhusband, we may make it through the winter. My husband is not saved, so I am not only praying for work for him to show him how much God loves us that even without there seeming to be any work, He (God) will provide for us. To further complicate things, we live in Michigan...one of the highest unemployment states and of course very little work.
But I'M BELIEVING GOD!!!!!!!
Thanks for praying!!!!!
Blessings,
Bible Bunny in No MI
P.S. Congratulations on the great Bible Study. God is always faithful to appear "where two or three are gatherd".
I am an at-home mother of 5. Three are in school two are at home. My husband will be laid off at the end of this month. We are looking for new employment! We are willing to move if God wants us to. We currently live in Indiana.
I was laid off in FL this past July and decided to relocate to my home state of CT. Since being up here I have managed to get a part-time job at a department store, and a temporary full-time job. I feel blessed because that may be more than what others have been able to find, but with the mortgage for my house in FL and car payment and all of my other bills, some months I barely make it. I've had to go to "bank of mom" a few times for a loan which I will pay back as soon as I can. I am discovering that what is so wonderful about this season of my life, is that my optimism has not waivered at all and my faith in God has grown stronger than it has ever been. This move was a huge step of faith for me, and I am thrilled to be in the front row, watching how He's going to work it all out. I just have to continue to do my part. Don't get me wrong, I do have my moments where the uncertainty of it all keeps me up at night, but I trust God that it will all work out. Thank you, siestas, for your prayers.
Yes, my husband was just diagnosed with cancer last month and is in the middle of treatments. He doesnt get paid if he doesnt work so he is dragging himself into work four days a week (Mondays are chemo). That missing $$ usually pays my eldest son's tuition for christian high school. We will also experience a mountain of debt from medical expenses but there is nothing we can do but incur it!! I KNOW that God is taking care of us and IS providing but will post anyway. Remember, God is good ALL THE TIME!!!! Michelle
Strength to continue to trust God for provision and protection in uncertain times. So far, He has, but as a woman in her 50's and alone, I am very concerned with the future related to retirement. Who knows, God may keep me nursing into my 80's. What a hoot!
Beth, Thank you for caring. My son and daughter-in-law, Phillip and Lori, are about to lose their house. Phillip was layed off along with 6000 others from a bank. Lori is expecting their second son in April. They need God's guidance. Thank you for the prayers!
What a timely post, I desired to share this prayer need even before I read this recent post.
My pastor and his wife from Durango, CO have just lost their home to a fire this morning. So far, nothing inside is salvageable. They have just adopted their 8th, 9th, and 10th child from Uganda and China, and are in desperate need of our prayers. Their names are Dwight and Linn Saunders and you can find updated information at aplacecalledsimplicity.blogspot.com. Please, please be praying for them, siestas!!
Wow, the opportunity to have you and all of the people on this blog pray for my family just seems too huge to even grasp. We have been hit hard financially this year as we have a landscape installation business that was first deeply affected by the housing problems and then the recession was the icing on the cake. We have made so many sacrifices including our home to try and keep our doors open to not only feed our family, but provide what we promised to our customers. My faith is the only thing that keeps me going each day and I try to keep my head up for my kids and by knowing that I am also learning great lessons from this. Thank you so much for your prayers.
The Strouds are a young family in my church who desperately needs to sell their home. They moved here over a year ago from Tennessee and because of the housing market their former dwelling has become an albatross. Siestas, I believe if you will call out in faith on their behalf, God will send a buyer. And...we will be quick to give Him the glory.
Mary Watkins
West Memphis, AR
I live in Virginia and work as an Office Assistant in a small Engineering firm - Of course, our surveyors job load has steadily been dwindling and they (who are one a kind, kind-a-guys) were just laid off yesterday - All of the Unemployment paperwork kept me busy through the day but it hit me how much I cared about thoses bozos when I left the office - Pray for them please....
Just wanted to let you know we started Stepping UP at bible study day. I need it so badly right now. I've got nothing, I'm bone tired and I want to crawl in a hole and sleep for a week. Thanks for doing all you do to keep us going!
Julie in SC
What an awesome opportunity to share this specific area of need. Thanks Beth. We are feeling the effects of the economy but at the same time know how very blessed we are. My specific prayer need is a mission trip I am making payments on. I am going with a group to haiti in may and the payments are $280 a month until May. I know that God is calling me there and to go on this trip. Being a mother of hour I just feel guilty that I am taking this money away from my family. My husband is very supportive of my going and knows I am following the will of God. Those are his words and feelings but you can certainly see the look of stress when we are writing out our bills.
Paula/Sevierville TN
I have been without a job since September 26th. God has provided our every need during this time, please pray for Godly wisdom & placement. Cute little tidbit...little niece gave me a water globe for Christmas that said Hope. I inquired...she said you are looking for a job, and when you need a job, you need hope.
I am a single mother with two teenage boys and their father hasn't worked in a year now, so we are not receiving any child support at all. It has been tough, but I know that the Lord is faithful and will provide!
Blessings
Michelle
My family and myself are ok right now (things are still up in the air though.)But my city needs prayer. I live just outside of Detroit, MI and this whole area is suffering. Im sure everyone knows about what is going on here so needless to say there are alot of hurting people. Also please keep the homeless in Detroit in your prayers over the next few days, the wind chill will be below zero.
I started Esther last night and you reminded me that even when it looks like God is not working, He is living and active in Detroit.
Hey Beth!
I am definitely feeling the crunch. I am a college student very much dependent on my parents. I love them so much and they want to provide for me as much as they can. The problem is that my dad lost his job over the Christmas break. It's hard and they don't want me to deal with any of it. But, my older sister and I are in college and my two younger siblings are still in highschool. It is just really hard. I am also dealing with lots of emotional struggles too which has been hard. Anyways I would really love some prayer or advice. Some help, some intervention. I am confused and struggling. I love you Beth. Thanks for praying and caring!
Love,Jennifer @ UGA Athens, GA
Wow. You will pray for me? Thank you.
I work full time and my husband is self employed for over a year now but his business is not doing well and in order to pay the bills we need 2 full time incomes which we do not have right now. We have a 2 year old son.
Please pray that our bank will be willing to help us refinance our mortgage. We our 3-4 months behind.
Please pray that we can avoid any further penalties by credit card banks. I know we have lived for quite a number of years now above our means and now have crushing credit card debt to the tune of 30K. We have stopped using them but we are only able to make minimum payments and fear credit limits will be reduced and we'll be socked with over the limit fees.
Please pray that God will give us financial wisdom. That we will stay strengthened and resolved to stop living like what we feel we deserve but rather within our means and committed to using our money wisely and to reducing our debt.
We are considering moving out of state to NC, a fresh start and somewhere less expensive than NJ. Would you pray for us to give us some clarity on if this is the direction we should pursue?
One last request is for us to somehow, someway have the financial means to send our son to a christian preschool.
You are a blessing! Thank you.
Washington, NJ
Thank you for praying! My husband works for a homebuilder in Austin, TX as a Controller. He was notified before Christmas that he is being laid-off, his last day is 1/30. He's working with 5 different recruiters but so far, no calls. We have three kids and I'm a stay at home mom.
Thank you so much for praying!...I left a job in June and have yet to be fully employed again. To compound the problem, I moved to Georgia in August thinking the job market was better--wrong! I've only been able to find a very part-time, low-paying retail job. I used to be somewhat professional with marketable skills, but I can't even get hired by the call centers. After years of being debt-free, I've gone through my savings and am a credit card slave again. God HAS been faithful to provide rent thus far. (Lord, I'm sure you've noticed that it's due again in two weeks!) I'm trying to trust my Heavenly Father, but if I'm honest, my faith has worn thin and is frayed at the edges.
This is wonderful, thank you.
My husband and I are getting by fine, but many of my family members, none who know the Lord and who are my "mission field" at this time in my life, ARE feeling the crunch.
My mother, Laurie, who is a year into a divorce she didn't want, is struggling to find work to support herself in an area that is very economically depressed (South Western New York State). I was just on the phone with her today as she cried, stressed, trying to figure out how to pay her bills, and wondering why the praying and the bible reading she's been doing, at my suggestion, isn't helping. This is a tricky situation to witness into.
And my sister Ashley and her fiance Ron, and father of her two children, one with special needs, was laid off and is having the same hard time finding a job in southern New York. She has said more than once about their situation, "If there's a God why would He allow this?"
Prayer for those of us witnessing and ministering to people who are affected by this crisis is much appreciated, thank you so much siesta!
Thanks Beth--We live in an area that has not been so hard hit with the financial crises... it's a good reminder for us to keep other sisters (and brothers) in our prayers. I'm praying God will use this financial crisis to heal our nation's spiritual crisis. It also makes me wonder how all this fits into the beginning of the end for this world...
I will gratefully accept intercessory prayer! I am in Santa Barbara County, CA. Due to a lawsuit and my husband's job loss we were forced to decide between bankruptcy or a short sale of our dream home. The Lord shut the door on bankruptcy but opened the door to short sale...our home was sold to a cash buyer and closes this week! Praise God! We will still owe a deficiency balance of a little over $100,000 but we both work and will do our best to repay quickly. We KNOW God allowed these circumstances for specific reasons, so please pray that His will be done!
Hi, Beth. :)
We're currently trying to pay off a lot of old debts (a financial crisis hit us a few years ago when I lost my teaching job after an extended maternity leave), so that we can move forward. We'd love to buy a house! We're trying very hard and we still need lots of prayers--specifically for the guidance and wisdom to appropriately manage our money.
Thank you so much, Beth. And thank you immensely for your Bible studies--it is through them that I really, truly fell in love with Jesus. I cannot thank you enough for your words. Jesus, 90 days...was a Christmas gift to me and I am LOVING it. :)
My husband and I could use prayers regarding our financial situation. I am currently looking for a full time job. The last 6-8 weeks have been extremely difficult due to cancelled jobs (my husband works in the bus industry and leases coaches to entertainers. Several contracts and shows have been cancelled due to poor ticket sales) We are quickly watching our savings dwindle. In addition, we have been hit with unexpected repair bills and found out yesterday that our beloved dog has to have surgery this Friday. We are continuing to tithe and believing God for His
provision. Thanks for your prayers.
Susan
Nashville, TN
We (my workplace) have already had to do one set of layoffs and are looking at making further reductions whether it be cutting hours or laying more people off. It is a time of tremendous uncertainty and I find myself overwhelmed with concern not only for my own job but of my fellow coworkers who have already been effected or may be in the near future.
Thanks!
Christy, AL
things are tight. very tight. My natural inclination is to worry. But I am trying not to.
We started the Esther study last night and your words in the introductory session spoke to my heart. You reminded me that no matter what the economic or polictical situation is, God is still God and if He chooses to move, ain't nothin' gonna stop Him, praise Jesus. I love the fact that He knew I would be in that very room, during this very season, needing to hear that very message...so he sent me you.
Thank you for praying and thank you for being obedient to His call.
blessings,
karen
I am single, and halfway across the country from my family, and I've just been layed off as of the first of the year... I'm currently living in Lawrence, KS, and desperately need to find a job, preferably one that I can find a pleasure in doing, and one with a positive environment (i'm coming off of quite a few jobs where i was beat up, put down, and used by my employers). I would greatly appreciate any prayers, anyone could spare:) Thanks! and God bless:)
Our family could use some Siest-ercession. We are getting ready to put our home on the market and move back to where we are originally from (12 hour drive) ...so we need to sell a house and buy a house in perfect timing! Also we need to be led to the job(s) meant only for us. So much more, but any of you who have moved know there are just so many issues to deal with!
I'm agreeing with the rest of you - for your needs to be met in HIM!
I am having a hard time asking for prayers because I know my situation is so minor compared to multitudes of others in our country and Siesta-ville. Here goes - we have 3 sons in college and one in high school. My husband and I have good jobs and have saved faithfully for college. However, the funds in those accounts have dropped by half over the past few months and we will have to take out loans to pay for all the college expenses. Our boys all have "A" averages and get good scholarships, but it is so expensive to pay for tuition, room and board. I just pray we can continue to provide an education for them and that we both continue in our jobs despite the economy. Thank you for the prayers!
Yes ma'am, I could use some Siest-ercession and kneel ready to pray for my siesta's requests, too. As many of our church women agreed yesterday after bible study--"Lord, bring on some SHALOM living in 2009!"
My hubby & I went into the home building business after his 30+ corporate career went bye bye. This past year has been very difficult & stressful. We have a beautiful new home to sell that has been on the market for a year and a half. We need to move this house asap! The word foreclosure makes me heart sick (so Kristie--the very first siesta request above...I hear you! And am praying for you, too.)
We are nearing retirement age, but our retirement fund is shrinking due to this home for sale. Thanks so much for giving all of us the opportunity to pray for one another.
Sandy in Texas
We need prayer for our financial situation. We have $30,000 in debt for school loans. My husband is currently going to seminary, is on staff at our church which is a church plant, and working a part time job. I stay at home with our 2 year old son and work part time as well. We want to add more children to our family, but know that we are hurting financially as it is. So please pray for us. Please pray for churches all over and the financial support they all need to operate. My personal biggest prayer is that my husband and I would be faithful to tithe even when it seems that we have nothing to give. We have been given so much and I know everything we have is from the Lord!!!! Thank you!!
Oh, Sweet Beth - you do not know what this means to me! Hubby still has a job, but his hours and pay have been cut back significantly. I am a SAHM. I have looked for a job but, here in MI, no one is hiring and the few jobs that I may be able to get would not pay for the childcare. We are losing our home and forced to file bankruptcy (it was a mad wrestle to rectify this with our faith, but God has been faithful in sending us words of peace and encouragement - we do plan to pay back the debt, we just cannot do it on their schedule).
Our biggest prayer is that we Glorify God THROUGH this trial - not just at the end, but every step of the way. We are looking for a new home now, please pray that we can get a lease or rental agreement with our credit the way it is now. One year ago our credit scores were in the 700's and now we are bankrupt!
Hi. Praise God for your prayers! Please pray for my husband, Drew, and I. He has his own business and income fluctuates. Please pray for wisdom and discernment for Drew as he makes business decisions to continue providing income for our family to live on. I help him as I can...stay at home mom with two kids (homeschooling - ages 5 and 8). Please pray for financial wisdom regarding giving, saving and budgets. God bless you!
Love in Christ,
Melissa
PS - The Esther study is great. I have been listening to the CDs and completing the workbook...God is speaking and I am enjoying it very much!
Beth,
I just came online today to say your verse I chose to memorize was exactly what I needed with my company news today. I work for a company in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, and our company just filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy today, which means they will try to restructure and "come back". More layoffs will be coming than recently announced, but this time with NO severance package. I have an incredibly flexible job and the thought of going somehwere 8-5 and not be with my kids in the afternoon breaks my heart. I pray our company turns around and I'm a part of it, or God shows me what He has in store for me and my family (most likely scenario)!
Thanks!
Jean
"He is your constant source of stability; He abundantly provides safety and great wisdom. He gives all this to those who fear Him" Isa 33:6
I would so appreciate your prayers for the current situation my family is in. We have had our house on the market (in North Carolina) for several months with no offers. We live paycheck to paycheck and it's a constant burden on our shoulders. We have a baby on the way and my husband and I would love for me to stay home with our baby. But we can't survive on one income. If I go back to work, we can't afford childcare. God has been so faithful to us. I know he will either bring a buyer to us, or provide a way for us to manage our current mortgage. But my flesh asks "Could you do that now rather than later?" Thanks so much Beth!
Thank you so much for thinking of us! I feel badly for asking for prayer after reading the other requests, but all our needs are different, right?? My husband and I are both employed currently. My job decided to not give raises this year so that they could continue to employ us....but the health care increased. My husband works as a stone mason and has consistent work, but we really struggle with setting money aside for his taxes when we need to money to pay bills. We've been working to pay down way too much debt...and struggling to do so when there's no extra money. We desparately want to honor God, continue to tithe, but be free of debt and not incur any additional debt in the midst of all this. Oh, and keep our jobs too. We believe God is faithful and true in his provision, and just can't wait to give Him the glory for financial freedom!
I hope this isn't a double post, I just had a technical difficulty.
I reduced my business after prayer and went to work part time for another company. I was laid off recently and need to build my business back up while caring for sick parents.
I need a God thing, good work that pays but not soooo much I cannot handle it and do a great job for clients.
THANK YOU! Over the last two years I have had 4 knee surgeries (ACL and such) and being a nurse this has really made our finances tight. My husband has done well in construction (thanks to Hurricane Katrina) but the construction industry has slowed drastically and he was told if it didn't pick up he would be laid off. I am still having problems with my knee and pray that I am able to return to work and that my husband keeps his job or we face losing our home. All prayers are greatly appreciated.
Tricia
New Orleans, LA
Definitely feeling the crunch Beth. I'm a 24 year old college student from Florida and currently still living at home to get through school and still living paycheck to paycheck, but God always provides. I drive three nights a week to school, to and from Orlando, which is about a good hour away and so the gas kills me. I try not to stress over finances, but sometimes it's easier said then done but God always provides. Thanks for the prayer covering :)
Thank you in advance for your prayers. My mother and I are each single women with stable full-time jobs for which we are very thankful. For the past 8 years we have cared for my maternal grandmother who suffered cancer and then a stroke and requires skilled care in a nursing home. While grandma has assets to sell to help pay for her care, in the current market the assets are not selling. We are quickly running out of cash and need something to sell quickly.
Indiana
My husband's company is scheduling layoffs every quarter through the next two years. There is a great deal of work to do. I have always prayed God's protection and favor over my husband and we've survived many a layoffs and threats of strike with the union without one missed paycheck. Please pray for continued provision and favor. Also, our 401(K) faired pretty well until recently. Please pray for our retirement as well. God will provide.
My ex-husband was layed off this past week. He has struggled for so long with being unemployed several years before finding the job he was just layed off from last week two years ago. He struggles with many problems, is single and well, it worries my girls that he is in this situation.
Plus he is much in arrears on his child support, with eldest starting college this could not happen at a worse time.
Just, Please pray for both of these men (Scott, my husband and Todd, my girls' father).
Anyway... Signing out, Michelle from Fort Worth.
My husband and I are about to celebrate 2 years of marriage (praise God!). We are barely scrapping by and dipping into savings every month, but the savings are drying up. We both have jobs that are keeping a roof over our heads (barely), but that are also sucking the life of us as well. We need prayer that we'd hold on to Jesus tightly, and for wisdom and discernment about some possible big changes.
Please pray for my friend Barb.
Her husband desperately needs work.
She was recently in an accident, which just adds to the stress level.
Thank you for praying!
I own a business in an industry that was on the decline before the economic crunch. God has been good in helping my sales stay fairly consistant. How faithful he is! My prayer request is that I will stop being afraid. When I see shops closing all around and when I hear all the doom and gloom about the industry, it feeds my fear...especially during slow seasons. I need to not be afraid, no matter what happens!!
We are beyond our ability to fix our financial situation. We are out of options,but to His glory we are at peace. We desperatly want to receive what He's teaching us through this. I am praying scripture over my husband to ward off the attacks of the enemy!
Thank you Beth!
God is so amazing, at this time we have zero debt praise HIM! My husband Gerry had very little work in 2008, and 2009 is looking pretty grim. God put it in man to work, and mine is willing, but really fighting the depression battle as there is no work to do!
Thanks Siestas, I will lift you up too...Marcy in Redmond, Oregon
Dear Beth -
We need jobs for my husband & I. We've been without income for several months. Thanks so much for offering to pray for us. I'm so grateful.
Cindy, CA
My family moved across the country two years ago after specific (jaw droppingly so) direction from the Lord. The job has not worked out as we were told it would and that has left us in a huge bind. My husband has taken another (lesser paying job) but has also allowed some anger with God over this whole situation to begin to take root in him.
At the same time we've had to move one of our children to a private school because of some HORRIBLE incidents that happened with her at school last year. Similar incidents are beginning to effect my younger children and we are probably about to have to move them even now. Thankfully the private school has been willing to work with us on tuition so far.
The Lord has not provided a different job for me - my job allows great flexibility at the moment but not great pay. So maybe that is the more needful thing at the moment.
Thankfully we are not about to lose our house or vehicle, and although we are behind on everything there is food in the fridge and heat coming from the furnace - we have much to be thankful for. The Lord has provided everything we need for today. Tomorrow I'll ask Him about tomorrow.
I know that God has not forgotten or overlooked us, He has His hand in this we're just really struggling to find it right now.
I guess the greatest need in all of this though for us is my husbands heart. If he allows this to hardened his heart toward God there is no job or paycheck that will make that ok
Please pray for my best friend, her husband who is in the banking industry lost his job six months ago and has put in numerous applications over that time period and they have had no takers. God has provided for them during this time but their finances are coming to an end. Please pray he can find a job. They meet with their mortgage company at the end of this month and we are praying she does not loose her house. Thanks for praying!
I was laid off in October and my husband is a union worker whose local is working without a contract right now (since Sept). Please pray that negotiations go smoothly and that an amicable agreement can be reached without a strike or even talk of one.
My husband needs a new job, which is obviously hard to get right now. He currently works on commission and has horrible hours. He is also afraid the store he works at may close. If he doesn't find a new job, I will have to go back to work full time. We just adopted our son this summer. We both feel like I should stay home with him. We also feel like we should adopt another child, which is a huge financial undertaking. We are also trying to grow our small photography business. Thank you so much for your prayers!
I am battling a disease that is trying to take my sight - and succeeding. I'm taking an experimental medicine that is both very dangerous and very expensive, and my insurance company has refused to pay their share. Please pray that God will move and they will pay their portion of the cost. I've paid my premiums for years and I really need them to do their part.
Beth,
The house my husband and I are living in has been on the market for over two years. Within the next hour we have a showing. My husband has not worked since September of 2006 and at this point is willing to do anything to generate some income. I work part-time at my church and hope to go full-time in February. We've been paying a very high house payment and paying out of pocket for health insurance. GOD HAS BEEN FAITHFUL TO US AND HAS PROVIDED FOR US EVERY STEP OF THE WAY. I am clinging to Ephesians 1:11! Thank you for your prayers!
Love,
Kim in VA
My mother and father, who are in their 60s, and my brother who is 30 just lost their jobs. They all worked for a small company in a very small town and were let go at the same time. They have no insurance, no savings, and no retirement. My parents both have health issues and my brother has a family to support. I'm doing everything I can to support them. I took on a second job to help, but between my full time job, and the treatments for my breast cancer, and the second job I don't feel like I'm helping them very much. So it feels like prayer is the only thing that can help right now. Thank you!
My daughter Amanda just graduated Texas A&M and is desparately in need of a job as a marine biologist. Lots of complications here. Please pray God will open just the right door.
I work at at an insurance agency, but the bulk of our income comes from my husband. We are self-employed (He's an IT guy) and my post could echo all of the others here. Clients are cutting back in every area and taking longer and longer to pay. We live week to week and have developed great faith muscles... but sure would love a few weeks in which we could wonder less and praise more - if you know what I mean. :) Definitely feeling the crunch here in NH.
Heather
Today I am VERY grateful for your prayers. I am in my late 50's & am physically disabled with a low income from social security. I also am responsible for my special needs son who has many medical needs right now. We praise our Lord for his faithfulness, because nothing around us is stable. It is in him we trust. My daughter lives at home & works full time, but we are only 1 pay check away from loosing our house & bankruptcy. I am standing in the gap with all of our Siestas & know our only hope is in Jesus Christ.
THANK YOU for caring, Marilyn, Nebraska
I'm single and am seeing my companies bottom line plummet in this economy and am feeling just plain scared about the future. I know the Lord is utlimately in control, but I am alone and don't have another other source of income should something happen.
Thank you for your prayers.
What a hearttouch.... Beth. Thank you. You know this year, I have had to walk away from my home (single mother)and rent a home, which was hard to do. But God is so faithful and moving my heart more and more to the things that matter. As my family grows in our rental home (I am adopting two more little girls from Ethiopia)..I know He will continue to provide for us. I covet your prayers for my mom and dad, Jim and Mary.... on a fixed income, they just got over a third of that cut by some CA law in effect..so they are living on practically nothing...and their one car, dies every week. MY heart aches for them. (I want to move them in with me, but they are not ready for that, yet) She is a siesta-grandma. Please pray for JIm and Mary.
Bless you...sometimes I feel like I am so alone in standing in intercession for them.
Last month my brother in law was laid off. Last week both my mother in law and father in law were also laid off - different companies, different industries. My in laws are not financially prepared to retire yet, so dad is looking for a new job at the age of 67. Please pray for doors to be open for both my father in law, David, and his son, Curt. They are all faithful followers of Christ.
Wow! I am so humbled for this request to pray for financial struggles. We're in a terrible mess. My husband lost his job for political reasons (works in local government) after an election a couple of years ago and everything has come tumblin' down. Our house is in terrible shape - the bathroom floor is literally about to fall in. It's about to burn down because the wiring has major issues and we just have the circuit breaker turned off in most of the house. The plumbing is really bad so I do our laundry at the laundry mat. I run my dishwasher twice a week because of these issues as well. I have no lights in my kitchen, or my chldren's bedrooms because of the electrical problems. Last week my husband's car was repossessed. Our house has been on the market for a few months now just to try to get out from under a mortgage but of course it will not sell because of the major problems previously mentioned. I am a Church secretary and make little money. My husband has a good job now but just found out that the current mayor he works under will not seek re-election so we could go through all of this again. My youngest son is failing two subjects and I desperately need to put him in tutoring but I don't have the money to do that. There is seemingly no way out of this mess. It just keeps adding up.
Please pray for us and thanks for asking.
Dana in Tennessee
Please pray for our Lord to lead me in paths of righteousness for His name sake. I go for a job interview in the morning...I will be leaving my post as a stay at home mom if I get the job - which we need. I want to do what is best for my family. So thankful for the hope we have in Jesus and His Word.
I am a wife and mother of three children. I stay at home. My husband was laid off the last day of working before Christmas. God has been so faithful to provide for my family, and I know I have the assurance that this will remain. But he is looking for work, and it isn't easy. His is the only income we have. I don't want to go back to working. I feel my time is better served teaching children in a weekly bible study and serving on our worship team. But I just want to follow where God wants my family, and not rely on my own plans. Thanks for the support-Christy
Please pray for foreign missionaries. We returned from 6 years of service in Nigeria in June. God alone provided a job for my husband and keeps us simply living day by day. No extras, but joyful tithing as "gifts" appear. Others will return too as the high cost of serving in foreign countries and lack of support drives them stateside. It's time for the haves to sacrifice. Everytime I see a believer with a starbucks in their hand I cringe as so many are really suffering, hungry, without insurance, desperately depending, alone.
Funny you should write this today. My husband got laid off yesterday. We both are fine. My husband is going to get his CDL license and get a different job. We are hopeful. My daughter needs to sell her house. She has to go back to work next week to help out with their finances but has to leave her daughter in childcare, which is breaking her heart. Again in each situation we know the Lord is in control.My husband is a great witness to our Lord. Someone at work asked him why he wasn't upset. He replied, "I will praise the Lord in all things, I will praise the Lord." A co-worker admitted to him at that point that he was a christian looking for someone to mentor him. "When God closes the door, somewhere He opens a window...."
Oh wow. I need this desperately. My father has worked for the Department of Ag in Brenham for 15 years. My family's "home base" is Navasota. Our entire lives are built around it. I commute there from Cypress to teach. My mother teaches there. One of my sisters is a freshman at Sam. Last week, Dad was told he was being transferred to Lubbock. He isn't going. We believe that the gov't is trying to get him to retire early so that he doesn't max out his retirement. He'll lose money, lose a job and the likelihood of finding something comparable at 55 is slim. His only choices are to beg and plead or pursue legal action. Please pray for my dad (Dan) to gain the Lord's wisdom, guidance, protection and provision.
Thank you sweet friends.
Sarah
Cypress TX
You know you're going to be bombarded with comments, right? :)
I have been feeling, for the last couple of months, that I need to be at home with our 18 month old. But finances don't allow for it right now. My husband and works on commission. The pay has been very good in the past, but we have seen a direct on the service industry as a whole because of the economy. Sometimes I wonder if God is just waiting for me to take that step of faith and quit my job, so He can open up His doors of opportunity and blessing. Fear keeps me from doing this. I am about to start a 3 day fast b/c I need to hear from God loud and clear!
Alicia
The company my mother works for has filed bankruptcy and is in limbo regarding whether or not the division she works for will be there for her to continue work. Please pray for peace and provision for her as she trusts Him to be her husband, protector, and provider.
Please pray the family-owned small business that I work for...that that The Lord Who Provides would continue to be ever-Faithful.
Thank you,
Taylor - Las Vegas, NV
I am so glad to have such a great group offering prayers up in my behalf. I am lifting my brother-in-law up. Nicholas, who lives in Dallas Ft. Worth area, has been without a job since July. Lots of bites but no takers. My sister has a part time job bringing in a little bit of money. The reality of possibly losing the house is heavy on their hearts. Pray for an open door for him real soon.
Though I, a single parent of 2 teenage sons, have a job though not paying great or meeting all the needs, am praying to get accepted in a grant program that would allow me to go back to school and get my master's degree and become a certified teacher. I love working with inner city kids where there is such a need for a loving caring teacher.
Thanks,
Jan from Topeka, KS
I feel so blessed after reading some of the posts to know that my job is in very little (minor to the point of microscopic) danger of being lost and I still have money to at least put food on the table if nothing else. My heart breaks for those who are struggling. You will all be in my prayers.
The Journey Continues ~
DAVE AND I NEED PRAYER TODAY!
I don't think I am able to keep this at one paragraph. Please accept my apology and I appreciate you praying for the information below.
I am feeling violated after my husband's truck was broken into sometime last night and his briefcase was the only thing taken. It had over $2,000.00+ cash, appraisals, other's bank information, our house plans for our remodel,business & personal banking information, ss#'s, accounts,etc..
They left expensive glasses, ipod,etc... it was as though they knew what to look for.
I have been teaching budgeting this week to many having economy & financial problems and then this happens!
Frustration is in my blood right now!
I sincerely appreciate all prayers for Peace and calming spirit.
So many individuals have been dealing with economy, budgeting and finance problems.
I have left 2 families this week and just bawled when I got into my car after knowing what they must be going through.
WE NEED TO PRAY!!!
My precious son just called me and informed me that his roommate (age 20) was taken to hospital and transferred to another and found lesions on his brain. ( the same cancer that his father is dealing with at this time) Chris was in remission from cancer. PLEASE pray for CHRIS and his father who is also battling brain cancer. Economy problems for them too!
I continue to stand firm on the WORD = LIFE MANUAL! Everything we need to know and get us through the hard times is inside this book!!!
Sometimes it is a struggle just to open the pages and begin. But once inside, there is answers, peace and fulfillment.
GOD BLESS YOU FOR PRAYING FOR MY NEEDS TODAY!! I hope that I can do the same for you and your ministry!
Seeking my peace today!
With "Heaven Bound" blessings,
Kim
Thanks for asking! My dad (Jon) lost his job in March and he is having a very hard time finding a new one. My mom is a school teacher. I know they would both covet your prayers for him to find a job. Thanks!!
Oh, I covet your prayers! Thank you so much. My husband got let go from a company (you would all recognize the name of it) in June for a ridiculous reason. Anyway, to add insult to injury, they are now slandering his good name, and we have no choice but to seek legal action. We are NOT litigious people, and really don't have the extra money to pay an atty., but, it's our only choice. He is 45, and was just diagnosed with Lupus. So we're looking at this time as a blessing for him to have enough time to do all the necessary medical stuff. I praise God everyday for His provision. As our pastor said on Sunday, He provides just enough, just in time and just for today. Like the manna he provided for the Israelites. Thank you again for your prayers. I love all of you.
His name is John, mine is Karen, and we live in Walnut Creek, CA. P.S. My church is hosting the Focus on Marriage simulcast on Feb. 28th! I can't wait!
Please pray that my husband and I will be able to sell some equipment from a previous business this Saturday. We have incurred a great deal of debt as result of this business, and it is going to take a supernatural work of God to help us with this mess. We have continued to give, and I know that God will honor that.
Thanks,
Stephanie in Alabama
Hi, Beth. I am a siesta, but have to be anonymous today. My family owns a custom home building business in Colorado and have built very large custom homes for 30 years. Though my parents only have 4 homes to sell, the inventory level because of the type of homes is well over 10 million dollars. They have drained retirement money to stay a flot and watched the retirement dwindle because of the market. Real Estate is anything but sure fire right now.....Please, if you could, lift up my parents. They are scared, but trusting. My husband and I can do NOTHING to help them. Nothing but approach the giver of EVERY good and perfect gift and ask him to meet their needs.
What should I even be praying????
I am in the scripture club with Isa 33:6. It is MY verse for my economic pinch but it is also being wielded for my parents....
I love you, LPM girls. Beth, thank you for being you.
Hi girls!
I just got done (like 2 minutes ago) crying out to God to please help me move forward when all I want to do is curl up in a ball. With tears in my eyes, I went to your blog for some encouragement and found your sweet posting. Thank you God for the power of intercessory prayer!
I'm a single, self employed Realtor living in Atlanta. My prayer is that my relationship with God is strengthened during this tough time. My faith has faltered and I feel even more alone. I would like to move into a position that allows me to be very social and helpful as those are my two favorite things to do! :-)
Thanks for your ministry- I love you. Kathleen
Ladies,
I am a first time blogger and I love this website. I am a pastor's wife in Eldorado, TX. Yes, that is the home of the famous FLDS YFZ compound. We accepted the call to Community Baptist Church and moved in March 29. ( The raid happened April 3) What a great way to get totally immersed into the community. My husband is a bi-vocational pastor and of course these times out her in oil and gas country can be precarious at this time. I have started our 2nd Beth Moore study since we have been here and we have been so blessed by Beth's teaching. Our first one was "A Heart like His." We feel like David is a part of our ladies group. We feel like we really know him. We just started last week "The Patriarchs." We have 11 ladies and they are all so excited about the study. When I get a picture of our group I will send it to you. I want to be a part of the "siestas". Our daughter is moving to Houston from Bulgaria in the early part of the summer. Praise God for your teaching gifts Beth. I will continue to lift you and your ministry up in prayer. I heard you in person at the Southern Baptist of Texas annual meeting in Houston a couple of months ago. Thank you for what you do in obedience to our LORD. Your siesta in Christ, Kathleen
We are trying to get side business of raising animals. It has been my husband's life long dream. I am a stay at home mom to our 3 sons 5, 5 and 10. We are really at a point we need to do some work on our barn, yet dryer, and bathroom need major attention at our house. My husband has worked 2 jobs at a time numerous times and constantly makes sacrifices for our family. I really would appreciate prayer for things to come together for the things we need to make it all work. We are careful to give God the honor and glory of our endeavers. I would just for once like my husband to be able to make of go of things and not be the one to sacrafice dreams he has had for so long and be encouraged to succeed despite his past.
I'm crying as I write this. How did you know what has been so heavy on my heart, yet I have not been able to express to anyone because of being afraid. I stay at home with my two beautiful children and my husband is a construction worker. And this economy is not great for that type of work. I am not able to work at home because both of my children have special needs. One with Down Syndrome and one with Cerebral Palsay. I know I am needing to trust God completely and in comparison to so many in the world, I am wealthy. Please pray for my mind to be on Jesus and not the economy. Also for my mind to be saturated with the scriptures I am memorizing and for the blessings that I do have in my life. And how much the Lord has already taken care of me and our family. Thank you.
I pray you will be blessed for being a blessing in prayer to me!
I am a newly Single Mom; I have 3 young children. The marriage was very abusive; God has comforted me again and again with the reminder I belong only to Him. Starting over is filled with hope, but no money. In order to get my children out I had to consent to no child support. I need a good job and a home! We're all living with my Dad & Stepmom (may they be blessed 10 fold!) right now, but that's not a long term solution. I can't even file for assistance because that would start childsupport and thus take us back to my ex, out of state, away from family.
It's an ugly set of circumstances, but I know my God is Jehova Jireh; he is Faithful! Thank you for coming before the throne with us!
Blessings, C~
My husband is stationed at Ft. Knox (KY) and I live in Birmingham. He can't seem to find a job that pays what he needs it to pay and would allow us to live together or at least close to each other. We're having marital problems (which breaks my heart especially since I never thought we'd have them...). I know our Father has us in His hand and His plans are better than ours, but I would appreciate prayer for us.
I love you Mama Beth (and all of you at LPM). You're all so precious.
Agape~
Cathy
Beth, thank you so much for your prayers. The recession has not affected myself but my children and grandchildren are all in residential construction on the East Coast in Virginia and it has hit them hard. Please keep them in your prayers as we have. Virginia housing market has taken a very strong hit by the way the stock market and the recession. I keep reasuring and telling my kids to just keep looking up, he has a plan for all of us. Again, thank you for your prayers. Karen in Virginia
I could also use your prayers. My husband and I own a construction company, building new homes. Obvi not the greatest business right now. We have always stayed at least a year booked in advance, but we are currently on the last house on our list. So after this spring, there will be no more work. I am also currently in treatment for breast cancer. I am 30 years old and we have 3 small children. I am Believing God that He will provide. And I can definitely use your prayers! Thank you for the invitation!
"Siest-ercession (I just made that up. I made my own self laugh.)"
I Love it! I've done that before too...was completely amused by my own cleverness...Anyway!
My prayer request: I'm actually starting a new job next month... not only more money, but more hours as well... I know, it sounds like the prayer has been answered and there shouldn't be any cause for concern...but the job is only guaranteed for 5 months. The contract runs out at the end of June, and is on a year to year basis. It may or may not be renewed for the next year. And my job depends on the economic well being of a well-known local company that when it lays-off workers it's by the hundreds at least, if not thousands. I have all faith that God wants me here for however short or long and that it will be for my good to be there even just 5 months. But I do hope it will be longer…His will be done though.
Loretta Guthrie – Helena, MS
My request is not related to the economical "crunch" but is a spiritual "crunch" of sorts. My 17-yr-old niece, Hannah, has been battling brain cancer for almost a year. It's beginning to look like she may lose this battle. Our whole family are believers which is a huge blessing. Please pray that God would intervene and work a miracle but if He does not that He would use Hannah's story in a mighty way.
Beth,
Thank you so much for praying specifically for this. My dad was laid off from his job in Nov. He supports my mother, Jane who has MS and is bed-bound.
Thank you so much for your prayers. GOD's WORD is alive and active in me!!
In Christ,
Laura from Florida
I'm a stay at home mom in Texas to two boys trying not to worry about having enough to feed my family. It seems that the money we have just does not go far enough to feed two growing boys. Thank you for your prayers! I really want to be victorious in trusting God for our daily needs.
The company my husband works for closed their Ireland plant and laid off workers in the others (about 15% of the people in his plant). So far my husband still has a job, Praise God, but all overtime has been cut out and there will be no bonuses of any kind (that means Christmas).
Since I am a homeschool mom, we depend on OT to make ends meet. Niceties like movie rentals and happy meals are quickly becoming a thing of the past and that is OK. We are just trying to pay our bills and above all TITHE FIRST.
We know we are not called to have a spirit of fear and so we are trusting in Him.
Amber in TN
I'm overwhelmed by the responses and how many people are suffering. So many times I forget that I am not the only one who is in financial despair. While we are thankfully healthy and have three amazing sons, we are with only my measly income. We closed our restaurant due to the economy, lost our savings, and are in serious financial debt. My husband took a job which we thought was the right thing and we were starting to get our feet back on the ground when he was let go two weeks before Christmas. We have no idea how we will make it to the end of the month but God keeps providing. I finished the ten-week bible study Believing God in October. It changed my life and has helped me and my family get through this mess. My husband and I have become closer then ever before and my kids are
seeing my faith in action. Ironically, as dire as our financial situation is, it has been the most wonderful time of my life. I have never felt Gods presence as I do now. I finally get what it means to put it in Gods hands. My heart is overwhelmed with his loving touch. Thank you Beth and your staff for bringing Believing God to fruition.
My mom and I are starting Esther tomorrow night at her church. I cannot wait!!! Thank you for your prayers. Please pray that God will lead us to the right job and that one day soon we can start to give what we can financially to all those who need. Right now I give my testament of my amazing God and all he has done for my family and me.
Financial crunch- Kathy-Texas
Thanks you for the prayers! Blessings
My dear friends Erin and Travis. They have so many needs, and the Lord knows each of them. I'd ask you to just please lift them up.
My husband is self employed as a home builder/remodler. We had to sell our house last March because of monies lost on a home that he built during the good time and then didn't sell. We took a huge hit but God has blessed with another home to be in. My prayer is that God will continue to provide work for my husband and that he will see God's hand in all this (provisions). Our house payment on this one is much larger than before and we have alot of business debt to carry through. I am blessed to have a steady job and have been able to go from part time to full time to help contribute. We have one son in college. I am determined to honor God will all he provides and this struggle has made me so grateful and thankful for the Father's blessings. We have cut everywhere we can but sometimes it is difficult to trust in what you cannot see. Your prayers are so welcome. Thank You.
We are hanging on to our home by the skin of our nails. We have rented every room in our home out except our room. MY husband has a possilbe job promotion he will find out this upcoming sunday. Please pray we will be able to get back on our feet and not have to have these strangers in our home and that this promotion or a better job will come along for dean soon. Thank you for praying it means so much!
Dear LPM & Siestas,
Thank you for offering to pray for our family. We live in New England and I read your site all the time for encouragement. I am a stay-at-home mom of two boys, one of whom has special needs. His treatment is all out of pocket and not covered by insurance. In addition, we just had a huge expense come in - our roof needs to be replaced. Then, my husband's employer gave him the heads up that layoffs are coming and he will be impacted. In addition to this, we are saving money to prepare for a potential provision for my sister. My sister's husband is about to be laid off. He has been looking for work for sometime but hasn't found anything. They have three children, two of whom are special needs and require medical care. We have offered to take them in and assist in any way we can.
Our prayer is that, between the two families, we will have enough to take care of everyone's financial, medical and physical needs. Our other prayer - and more pressing one - is this: that we would experience an amazing provision of God's spiritual blessings. How we long to see this fulfilled this year, come good or bad finances.
Much love to you, esp those who are struggling!
Heather
You really don't know what this has meant for me TODAY of all days. We are a family of 7, with 5 kids from 15 to 8 months and every stage in between.
I am a stay at home mom because we can't afford for me to work just to pay daycare for the 3 younger ones. My husband, Eric, has just been laid off. We are AVIDLY searching for a job anywhere. We are in West Alabama, but are willing to go anywhere the Lord leads.
Please pray that we remain in God's will and in his peaceful arms during this time.
Thanks so much... God Bless!
Thank you so much for your prayers! My husband lost his job in April, found a part time job for several months and is now working full time again but for less money. We are starting to catch up but have one big thing that we need. Our son needs braces. When my husband lost his job we lost all dental insurance and we can't afford to pay 100%. I'm praying for us to find a way to provide the dental care he needs.
I don't need prayer for myself, but my step son was recently laid off unexpectedly. His name is Tucker. He and his wife have our first grandchild, Sari who is 1 1/2years old. His wife is working, bless the Lord, but he still needs to find work. Thank you for this...everyone's prayers are appreciated.
Due to the economy, credit card debt and growing children, I have had to go back to work to suppliment my husband's salary. This has been a hard adjustment for my family and it seems that we still feel the crunch each month. Thank you for your prayers. I especially need prayer that we will make wise choices with what we have already been given, so we will be prepared for what may come our way in the days ahead.
Thank you for your prayers. I am in such debt. I am in the process of turning all my bills over to a credit counseling service so I can begin to make some headway.
Please pray that this will help relieve some of the financial burdens we face.
Blessings to all!!
I would so covet your prayers for my precious family! A few days after Christmas, my husband's boss laid my husband off due to "economic worries." My husband is the sole provider for our family of seven (Our kids range in age from 11 years to 9 mos!), so you can imagine how I feel now that we have NO current source of income. (Living in Southern California makes it even more nerve-wracking--our region is so expensive to live in!)
We are living by faith and waiting on our God with the expectation that He will see us through as always!
Carina
Simi Valley, CA
Thank you so much for doing this! It seems every family I know has been effected in some way. On Dec 7th they called a meeting with the employees saying "yesterday was your last day". Poof! 260 lives in turmoil in a moment. I, myself, have worked for this printing corporation for 23 years, started when I was 22. Several others have that many years or more. I live in a small town in central Alabama that has been hit very hard. While it is a daunting thing since I was the major breadwinner AND carried our insurance and now find myself out of work - it's been so strange because I have not been afraid or even a little nervous. I'm almost excited, which I know is weird. But I believe God when He says He has a purpose for me and that it is a GOOD purpose and I know this isn't it. I want to know what that plan is. So if I could ask you to pray for me, I would ask that you pray that my ears and my heart are wide open to accept what God has in store for me. One more thing...tomorrow is my 5 year anniversary of being DIVINLY healed of liver cancer!! Yeah, God!! Love you.....Rebecca
Prayers? I'll take all I can get.
I live in Georgia.Married with one child.Husband suffers from bipolar and is not able to work-so its just my income.His health insurance is up for review-if it gets turned down he won't be able to get his medications.most are over $400 each.Facing lay-off,hours have been cut.After 10 years of marriage-it seems my marriage is falling aprart.Gas is cheaper,groceries higher.Barely have money for groceries each week.
Somehow,someway God always provides...PRAISE HIM..HE IS SO GOOD ...
Pam H.
Georgia
Beth, we are doing ok, but here are names of folks in my family or immediate circle of friends that are out of work:
Jim, Steve, Jason, Laura, and Maron.
We were able to sell our house right before the market went due south, but were unable to make the transisition into our "dream" home, we are renting a house and that drives me crazy!!! I realize we are far more fortunate than ohters since we both have jobs and no lingering sing of forclosure - that I know of. I work in the oil and gas industry and while I am glad to see the prices at the pump down, it is greatly impacting business. My company put a freeze on all raises and bonuses in an effort to defer any layoffs, and my husband works in the construction industry and they are just not getting a lot of work. We have been blessed thus far with at least 40 hours a week for him,he usually pulls 70-85 hrs/wk,so this is really like a pay cut!!! I know there are so many out there with out jobs, and in fear of loosing jobs, so I am greatful that we have what we have. The financial burdens are impacting us all right now. Thank you for your offer of specific prayers.
Loved last nights Bible Study! Beth you were Awesome!
As for your prayers, I sure could use some. I am going on month 13 of unemployment. You spoke last night of the year that changed our lives - I would dare say 2008 without a job may be the one for me. It has been the roughest, toughest thing I have ever been through. I am trusting Him to lead me through but if I am honest my trust is wearing thin. So, your prayers for strength to get through would be appreciated.
Thank you for doing what you do!
Dee
Houston,TX
We are self employed and hard pressed right now to get by and stay in business. I believe it is to God's glory that His people do well, I will lift up all of you and please lift us up as well. Shalom
Caitlin, Charlotte NC. Attempting to save for graduate school in CA for Fall 2009. Recently moved in with my parents. Left a "fancy pants" job in the music industry and am now a waitress.
My husband and I are self employed, running a small low-voltage business. The LORD has provided so faithfully! Please pray that He will continue to bring us work & that our customers would pay in a timely manner. Thank you so much!
Post a Comment
<< Home