I just read a breaking news article that oil plunged well below $0/barrel today.

For the thousands of you in San Juan County or other parts of the country who work in oil and gas, I can only imagine how devastating and heartbreaking this news must be.

While I admittedly know little about the oil and gas industry, here are 3 things I do know:

1. Oil is not gone forever.

This may feel like the end, and while it may be rock bottom, it’s not the end for oil. You and I both know this industry is like a roller coaster with its highs and lows, but the news today does not indicate this is forever.

2. Oil is not your identity.

Your identity should never come from your job, your career or your title. Your identity comes from the person who you are. The person you have been created to be. Your identity comes from what your Creator says about you.

You are a dad. A mom. A brother. A sister. A neighbor. A friend. A confidant. You are so much more than whatever your business card or nameplate on your desk might state.

Don’t lose sight of how God views you. Jobs come and go. Careers come and go. Who you are in the eyes of your Creator never changes.

“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God…” — Isaiah 43:1b-3a

3. God is in control.

We may not feel as though we’re in control, but God is. Put your hope and trust in Him, and He will give you the strength you need to ride out this storm.

Friend, even if you lose your job, title or company, you haven’t lost your identity.

That being said, I’m praying for you. If you have any specific prayer requests, feel free to send me an email at mmizell @ phcc.church.