Biblica devotionals boost morale of unemployed

Biblica, formerly International Bible Society-Send The Light, has published online devotionals to help people who have become unemployed in the recession.

‘Employing Hope’ offers 20 short Scripture-based readings, with reflection questions to consider and practical steps to take.

The devotionals aim to address the reality of unemployment while giving advice on how people can face their fears, draw near to God, and find courage, contentment and hope again through God’s word.

"We are experiencing an economic crisis unlike anything most of us have been equipped to handle," said Biblica Outreach Director Sues Hyde.

"People need hope and encouragement to remain emotionally and spiritually strong in these tough times.

“Our hope at Biblica is that they'll use these resources and find them helpful, and that they'll feel comfortable sharing them with others in similar circumstances."

The launch of the devotionals comes as official figures are expected to show this week that unemployment in the UK has risen above 2.5 million for the first time since 1995.

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development said this week that it expects unemployment to peak at three million next spring and warned of further job losses amid fears of a double-dip recession.

On the Web:
The devotionals can be downloaded for free at www.biblica.com/outreach/unemployment
News
Pope seeks prayers for peace in Christmas Day message
Pope seeks prayers for peace in Christmas Day message

The Pope asked people to pray in particular for the "tormented people of Ukraine" in his Christmas Day 'Urbi et Orbi' message. 

Who was St Stephen and why is he remembered on December 26?
Who was St Stephen and why is he remembered on December 26?

The carol says, “Good King Wenceslas last looked out on the Feast of Stephen.” In many countries, December 26, also known as Boxing Day, is better known as St Stephen’s Day. Stephen was the first Christian martyr. This is the story …

King Charles reflects on pilgrimage, reconciliation and hope in Christmas Day address
King Charles reflects on pilgrimage, reconciliation and hope in Christmas Day address

King Charles III used his Christmas Day speech to reflect on the significance of pilgrimage as he appealed to the nation "to cherish the values of compassion and reconciliation". 

2 Timothy 3:16 is Logos' Bible verse of the year, Matthew was the most studied book
2 Timothy 3:16 is Logos' Bible verse of the year, Matthew was the most studied book

One of the most-studied Bible verses of the year is from 2 Timothy in the New Testament, according to an analysis of millions of Bible study sessions that tracked how believers worldwide are engaging with Scripture.