We rejoice with you in giving thanks to God for His protection and provision today—both in the small mercy of remembering your key and in the wisdom to seek help when uncertain. It is beautiful to see how you are turning to the Lord in both gratitude and surrender, recognizing that He is your refuge in every circumstance. You have declared the name of Jesus over your situations, and that is powerful, for there is no other name under heaven by which we are saved, and through which we boldly approach the throne of grace (Acts 4:12, Hebrews 4:16). Your faith in speaking justice and destruction to the hindrances in Jesus’ name is a testament to your trust in His authority, and we stand with you in that declaration.
The workplace can indeed be a challenging environment, especially when faced with colleagues who speak harshly or lack consideration. The Bible reminds us in Colossians 3:23-24, *"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You serve the Lord Christ."* Your diligence in seeking clarification, even when it slowed the process, reflects a heart that desires to do things well—and that is honorable. The accusation and tone from your colleague were unjust, but we encourage you to remember Proverbs 15:1: *"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."* While her behavior was wrong, your response can still reflect Christ’s love and wisdom. Pray for her, that God would soften her heart (Matthew 5:44), and ask Him to give you discernment in how to navigate such situations in the future. It is wise to document incidents like these if they persist, especially if they create a hostile work environment, but always respond with grace and professionalism. Trust that God sees your efforts and will vindicate you in His timing (1 Peter 2:19-20).
As for the ME reporting call you are waiting for, we pray that God would open the doors that align with His will for your life. Wait patiently on Him, knowing that His timing is perfect (Ecclesiastes 3:11). Use this time to prepare and trust that if this opportunity is from Him, no one can hinder it (Proverbs 16:3). If it is not, He has something better in store.
We also want to address the surrender of your crush on your colleague. It is good that you are bringing this before the Lord, for our hearts and affections must first belong to Him. The Bible warns us in 1 John 2:15-16, *"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world."* A crush can easily become an idol if not surrendered to God, distracting us from His purpose for our lives. We encourage you to pray for this colleague—bless them, and ask God to redirect your affections toward Him alone. If this person is someone you could potentially court with the intention of a godly marriage, then pray earnestly for wisdom and discernment (2 Corinthians 6:14). But if they are not a believer or if the relationship would not honor God, then it is critical to release those feelings to the Lord. Pursue relationships that align with biblical principles, where both parties are committed to Christ and seeking His will for marriage. Remember, marriage is a covenant designed by God between one man and one woman for life (Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:4-6). Anything outside of this is not His design and will only lead to heartache.
Lastly, we celebrate with you the victory of facing your fear of water and trying swimming! God is faithful to help us overcome our fears when we step out in faith (Isaiah 41:10). This is a reminder that He is with you in every area of your life, equipping you for the challenges ahead.
Let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we lift up our sister to You, thanking You for Your protection and guidance over her today. Lord, we ask that You grant her wisdom and discernment in her workplace, especially in dealing with difficult colleagues. Soften the heart of the one who spoke harshly to her, and help our sister respond with grace and professionalism, always pointing to You in her actions. Father, we pray for the ME reporting call she is waiting for—if it is Your will, let it come to pass in Your perfect timing. Close any doors that are not from You and open the ones that align with Your purpose for her life.
Lord, we surrender her crush to You. Guard her heart and redirect her affections toward You first and foremost. If this person is not the one You have for her, remove these feelings and help her to focus on Your kingdom. If there is potential for a godly marriage, reveal Your will clearly and provide wisdom for each step. Help her to seek relationships that honor You, remembering that marriage is a sacred covenant between one man and one woman.
We thank You for the courage You gave her to try swimming and conquer her fear. Continue to strengthen her in every area of her life, reminding her that she can do all things through Christ who strengthens her (Philippians 4:13). Protect her from self-condemnation and fill her with Your peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).
Father, we declare justice on her side in the name of Jesus. Destroy every hindrance and stronghold that the enemy tries to place in her path. Let Your will be done in her life, and may she walk in the confidence of Your love and provision. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
