When Doors Close: Finding Hope in the Hallway
- Terence Jackson
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
By: The Cyber Deacon
This week has been heavy. I’ve received more texts and DMs than usual—messages filled with uncertainty, frustration, and quiet grief. Friends, peers, and former colleagues have found themselves facing unexpected job losses. If that’s you, this post is for you. I see you. I’m praying for you. And I want to remind you of this: a layoff is not the end of your story—it’s the beginning of a redirection.
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The Pause is Not Punishment
Let’s start with something real: it’s okay to feel disappointed. It’s okay to be frustrated, confused, and even angry. God created us with emotions, and those emotions are valid. But don’t camp out in the valley. This pause in your career is not punishment—it’s preparation.
In John 15:2, Jesus says, “Every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit.” If you’re being pruned, it’s because God sees more in you than you see in yourself. More fruit. More impact. More potential. Sometimes He has to cut away the comfort to call forth your calling.
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Redirection Is a Form of Protection
There’s a reason the door closed. You may not see it now, but I believe God is protecting you from something and preparing you for something greater. You may have been in a space where your value was overlooked, your faith was stretched thin, or your skills were capped. Now, you’re free.
Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” What looks like a detour is actually divine direction. And while you may not know the destination yet, trust the Guide.
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You Are Not Your Title
Let’s get one thing straight—your worth was never tied to your job title.
You’re more than a “Manager,” “Engineer,” “Director,” or “CISO.” You are a uniquely gifted child of God. You have talents, wisdom, perspective, and experience that no layoff can erase. That pink slip? It doesn’t define you. That severance package? It doesn’t discount you.
Psalm 139:14 declares, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” That truth remains even on the other side of an unexpected exit meeting.
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Rebuild With Intention
Take this moment to reset—not just your resume, but your rhythm. What passions have you buried under deadlines and deliverables? What dreams did you sideline to keep up with the corporate grind?
Maybe this is the season where God is calling you to write the book, start the business, pursue the certification, or simply rest. Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is pause, breathe, and listen.
Ask yourself:
What do I want to build next?
What environments allow me to thrive?
Where do I feel called, not just hired?
Let this be your season of intentional rebuilding—not just reapplying.
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You Are Surrounded
I know it can feel isolating. Job loss can mess with your confidence and make you retreat. But don’t do this alone. Reach out. There’s a network of friends, mentors, and colleagues who want to help.
Let us advocate for you, review your resume, share your profile, and pray over your path. And if you’re reading this and you haven’t checked in on someone who was affected—do it today. Your message could be the light they need in a dark moment.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says, “Two are better than one… If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” Let’s be those lifters.
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From Setback to Setup
Finally, don’t forget: God is still writing your story. The page may have turned suddenly, but He’s still the Author. And He never ends on a bad chapter.
Romans 8:28 reminds us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
That means even this—yes, even this—will work out for your good. Keep believing. Keep building. Keep becoming. Your next opportunity might just be the one that aligns with your purpose like never before.
To those navigating unemployment this week: You are seen. You are supported. And most importantly, you are not done.
If you need encouragement, prayer, or someone to walk this season with you—reach out. We’re in this together.