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