Article April 5, 2004 Issue

STABLE employment through PRAYER

A newly hired professor finds job security, even in shaky times.

By Michael Taylor

I thought I had it made—my first teaching job at a prestigious college at a time when teaching jobs were scarce. However, the coveted position carried with it the condition that I finish my doctoral dissertation within the year. Even with a full teaching load, I was looking forward to using the evenings, weekends, and holidays for writing and editing.

Under considerable pressure to establish my emotional and financial independence, I felt that "God helps those who help themselves." I was more than willing to do my part. So, as I unpacked the boxes of books in my new office, I said something along the the lines of, "Well, God, You got me this job, and I'm grateful. But I think I can handle things from now on." Big mistake!

Unbelievably, no sooner had I uttered those words than the phone rang. The department chairman informed me that my job description had just been significantly changed. The college's debate coach had been appointed associate dean, and I was to immediately assume his duties. My job would now entail intense daily drills with the debate teams, late-afternoon practices, and weekends and holidays on the road.