A few years ago, I had a job interview for an exciting senior leadership role that would take me back to a prominent academic medical center. Every interview up until that point had gone great. I felt excited about the people and the department’s mission. Many of my interviewers seemed excited, too: my leadership style and past successes seemed to be just what they were seeking.
I had been in this situation before, but there was one key difference this time: I was now a couple of years into a process of becoming a better follower of Jesus. So, before getting out of my car in the parking garage, I started to pray.
At first, I prayed the way I always did before opportunities like this. “Dear God, I’m really excited about this job. If it’s your will….” Then I caught myself.
“God, thank you for this opportunity. Thank you for all the encouragement I’m getting from even being considered. Help me be an encouragement to the people I meet with today. Help me to plant and water seed that can help them come closer to you.”
I continued, “Father, if this is the way I can bring you most the glory, please help me to see it clearly and take the right actions. If it’s not, please help me not to be bitter or discouraged. Just help me have what I need to take care of my family.”
Then it hit me. “Except, you’ve already promised me that, haven’t you? You’ve already been doing that every day of my life. I just need to seek you first. I know the best I could possibly do for my family is your will. So, Father, please help me do that.”
Walking down the street to the interview, I excitedly called Ashley. Knowing the interview hadn’t started yet, she thought something was wrong. Far from it.
“You know what?” I gushed. “No matter what happens, that experience praying makes it all worth it.”
The interview went great. I didn’t get the job. I am so thankful.