As most of you may be aware I have been looking for a job since my position was made redundant in September 2005. On Monday, 12 December, I would have completed three months of the job search, however, that is also the day I commence work with the InterContinental Hotel. A job in my field and line of work.

Things that seem bizarre and unexpected are never a surprise to God and here is an account of what I learnt during this time.

::God has a sense of Humor::

Prior to the job loss, I had taken a bank loan in July for home improvement, and was praying that I would be able to make all the payments by my birthday in November.

Knowing fully well that God is able; I imagined winning a jackpot, or that my loss-making shares would suddenly take an upswing. You can well imagine the twist, when I lost the job and with the severance, pay the loan up before November. I almost thought I saw the twinkle in God's eye; but He wasn't kidding me, there were important lessons I

was meant to learn in the next three months. I want to share just a couple.

::Lesson 1: Keep knees bent not fingers crossed::

Confidence on one's achievements slowly moves dependence away from God's grace. It is only when faced with challenges that our arthritic knees willingly bends, seeking guidance from above. I learned that crossing fingers only prevents blood circulation, but bended knees gives strength and that reality checks once in a while, helps keep the

spiritual heart beating

::Lesson 2: Strength is not an individual trait::

Ninety six applications and many rejections later, I felt like I had Acute Identity Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Almost as if no one was willing to touch me, at least in the recruitment world; wonder if you ever felt that way?

That's when all you friends and family rallied together and I am so grateful for you all. You made me hope and hold on; never could I have done that on my own. Strength comes when friends come together and channel God's care for those who need them most. About Lord Jesus, the greatest friend, it is written, "For we have not a High Priest, who

cannot be touched by the feeling of our infirmities." He knows it is the feeling that gets us down; the shadows that plague our mind, and that our eyes are hazy in differentiating reality from the feelings.

So as I commence work at the end of a three-month wait, I am also reminded of the nation of Israel who left the land of Egypt after four hundred and thirty years of slavery and bondage. They left on the selfsame day as God had promised Abraham many years ago. God trains us through experiences and difficulties but never longer than what's

required, not a day more, not a moment more. I only pray I have learned my lessons right and learnt them well.

God Bless!