Years ago, prior to accepting a position, I contacted my future manager to inquire about the training I’d receive. Her response was curt and rude. I was taken aback but extended grace to her since maybe she was just having a bad day.

I couldn’t have been more wrong. I ignored her bad behavior and took the job. Within three months, I gave my notice. With a mortgage and two children to support, I made the decision to leave a well-paying job with no future employment prospects.

Crazy, I know. 

After months of mistreatment, I broke up with my manager over the phone. Before I shared the news with her, I paced my house and prayed. I wanted to make the right decision. Every time I thought about the potential consequences, I had a sense of peace. Despite the end of direct deposits and healthcare, I had peace.

Interestingly, within a few months of my resignation, several of my colleagues also left. So…maybe I wasn’t so crazy! Having had a slew of bad managers throughout my corporate career, I decided that my mental health was worth more than a paycheck.

How many times do we receive warnings that we cast away? I’m not saying we need to hit the panic button every time we sense something is not right, but it does warrant our attention as well as time in prayer to determine best next steps.

Not long after I left that position, I took a part time job as an office assistant to bring in some money. Another poor choice. I quit after three weeks.

Then, on the advice of a friend, I attended a networking meeting in the hopes of launching a new career or finding new employment. As we did a round robin of introductions, I pondered what I’d say. I had no job. No fancy title. No cool business venture.

As it got closer to me, I could feel my heart pounding. I thought, “Maybe I’ll say, Hi! My name is Jennifer. I’m just here for the free coffee!” Thankfully a better response came out of my mouth and instead I said:

“Hi! My name is Jennifer and I’m a freelance writer. I write for people who don’t like or don’t have time to write.”

What?? Where did that come from? After the meeting, I got my first client and launched a freelance writing business that supported my kids and I for several years.

Had I settled on my curt, (yet cute!) response about the free coffee, I’m not sure where I’d have landed but thankfully, God put the right words in my mouth at the right time.

So, what is the lesson here? Yes, paying attention to warning signs is important. Involving friends and wise counselors is helpful. However, praying about big decisions is critical. 

The Bible tells us to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18). This doesn’t mean we’re on

 our knees 24/7. I like to think of prayer as an ongoing conversation with my Father in heaven throughout my day. A “virtual check in” as I go about my tasks and errands, as I would a trusted friend or advisor.

Just like God gave me the words to say at that networking meeting, He can give me ideas or ways to accomplish what I need to. Yet, if I choose to ignore His promptings, at best, I miss out on a blessing. At worst, I cause myself a heap of trouble and get stuck in a detour.

In this distracted world we live in, I want to encourage you to check in with God as you make your decisions. Find Scriptures that support your choices. Ask trusted friends for counsel and above all…

…don’t ignore the warning signs.

P.S. If you would like to learn how to make the best decisions, watch or listen to the Elevate The Day Podcast, “How To Make The Best Decision.”