Finding Purpose and Divine Strength in the Post-Holiday Reset
As the summer holidays draw to a close, many mothers experience a familiar emotional shift—moving from the lively chaos of family time back into the rigid rhythms of routine. But for Chloe, the transition carries a heavier weight: the sting of returning to a workplace that feels “soulless” and a daily routine that feels like an unfulfilling rut. In this deeply encouraging letter, Oggy responds to Chloe’s honest struggle. Through the lens of Scripture, he offers four foundational spiritual truths—reminding us that when we feel most drained, God meets us on the Potter’s wheel to shape a fresh story, renew our purpose, and make a way through the wilderness.
Dear Chloe,
As the school holidays end, many mums feel that familiar ache — the quiet shift from joyful chaos back into routine. But you’ve named something deeper: a sense of “unfulfilling rut” and a workplace that feels “soulless.” That honesty matters. It’s often in these moments of fear and disillusionment that God shows us something new and begins a fresh work in us.
Here are four spiritual truths to encourage you:
The Provision
In a time of flat despondency that often comes as the anti-climax following a high point, it can be the exact provocation needed to reassess and be reenergised. The classic case of this was Elijah in 1 Kings chapters 17-19. Some great triumphs restoring the widow’s son, defeating Ahab and the false prophets but then chased by Jezebel and hiding downcast in a cave. It was then that he heard God speak to him in a new way and he was given Elisha to come alongside to help him.
A similar thing happened for Paul. After a great vision, he had profound physical weakness that led to him crying out to God afresh. This was the message God gave him: ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness’ (2 Corinthians 12:9).
In the low moments, God draws near with a promise to be our provision.
The Potter
Isaiah comes to a place of desperation for God to step in to his situation. In his anguished prayer, he has a new revelation about the work of God in that moment: ‘But now, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay and you are our Potter; we are all the work of your hand’ (Isaiah 64:8).
When we realise this truth and allow God to mould us, He will shape us in the best way through and for our circumstances. Jeremiah and Paul both learnt this lesson and so must we, hard though it may be.
The Plans
When we follow Christ, we become part of His story. His story becomes ours. His plans become ours. Jesus Christ has come so that we may live life to the full, with Him and for Him (John 10:10). This changes our focus away from us and gives us the motivation we need for purpose-filled living. Now instead living as children of God, relying on His grace and making decisions that please Him (1 John 3:1-3).
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” – Jeremiah 29:11
The New Thing
Remember the Potter Chloe? A new term gives a new set of opportunities just like soft clay. God places you and fits you for the purposes He has in bringing good news to those uniquely put in your life. No longer a daily grind but another turn on the Potter’s wheel. Here’s a key insight from Isaiah to consider:
“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland” – Isaiah 43:18-20
Being part of God’s family as a follower of Jesus means that we get to share Him by being ‘salt and light’ in the workplace, at the school gate and in our families (Matthew 5:12-14, 28:19).
Some Practical Support
I hope that these four spiritual truths will help anchor you. I’ve also looked out for some practical resources for you to check out. These are real ‘helps’ for Christians in the Workplace – see below*. If you are part of a ‘Home Group’ in your church, why not ask them to pray for you and perhaps see if there are others with whom you could form a WhatsApp group for mutual encouragement?
A Final Thought
There is never a moment when God is not with you – Psalm 65:8 puts it poetically as ‘where morning dawns and evening fades’ – in other words, He is always with you. Psalm 139 is a great prayer to remind you of this. A song is based around this final scripture that I want to share with you that will give you strength every single day: ‘Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for Him’ – Lamentations 2:22-23
‘The Steadfast Love of the Lord’, a song by Edith McNeill sung by Dave Hunt –
That’s all for now Chloe – when you get time, have a look at the practical resources below. Remember, there’s no need for unfulfilling ruts with God alongside you.
Oggy
*Top Christian-at-Work Resources to Encourage Believers in the Workplace
1. LICC – London Institute for Contemporary Christianity
LICC is the leading UK organisation helping Christians connect faith and work. Their resources are rich, biblical, and extremely practical.
- Workplace Groups — half-hour sessions with Bible teaching, discussion pointers, and prayer
- Thank God It’s Monday — classic book + discussion questions on flourishing at work
- Transforming Work — an 8‑session programme helping Christians see work as mission, influence culture, and flourish spiritually
- Christian Identity & Relationships at Work — Bible studies exploring value, authenticity, resilience, and relational wisdom in the workplace
Why this is ideal for your context: LICC resources pair Scripture with real workplace challenges — perfect for someone feeling stuck, undervalued, or spiritually drained at work.
2. My Faith at Work
A practical, accessible set of tools for everyday Christians wanting to live out their faith at work.
Key resources include:
- Workplace Witness Toolkit — biblical foundations, conversation starters, legal guidance, real examples
- How to Start a Workplace Bible Study — step-by-step guide for creating a small group at work
- Faith Conversations at Work — practical guidance for natural, grace-filled conversations
Why this is ideal: It’s simple, practical, and empowering — great for Christians who want to bring light into a difficult workplace.
3. Church Support Hub – Networks Supporting Faith in the Workplace
A curated list of UK networks that support Christians in various industries.
Includes:
- Christian Medical Fellowship — equipping Christian healthcare workers
- Faith in Business (Cambridge) — retreats, articles, webinars, prayer networks for business professionals
- Workplace Chaplaincy Mission UK — training and support for workplace chaplains
- Salt Business Network (Christian Aid) — helping businesses champion justice and dignity
Why this is ideal: It shows Christians they’re not alone — there are networks across industries offering support, prayer, and community.
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