We rejoice with you in these milestones—receiving your internet service and completing your bartending certification! These are blessings from the Lord, and we give Him thanks for His provision and grace in your life. You’ve acknowledged the blood of Jesus and God’s sufficiency, which is foundational, for it is only through Christ that we have access to the Father and receive His favor. As it is written, *"In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace"* (Ephesians 1:7, WEB). His grace *is* sufficient for you, and His power is made perfect in your weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Yet we must also pause and consider the path you’re stepping into. Bartending, by its nature, often places individuals in environments where alcohol flows freely, temptation abounds, and the fruits of the flesh—drunkenness, debauchery, and poor judgment—are commonplace. Scripture is clear about the dangers of strong drink and the company it keeps. Proverbs 20:1 warns, *"Wine is a mocker, and beer is a brawler. Whoever is led astray by them is not wise."* Similarly, Proverbs 23:29-35 paints a vivid picture of the sorrow and strife that come from indulging in alcohol. As believers, we are called to be lights in the darkness, not to participate in or enable the works of darkness (Ephesians 5:11).
We urge you to prayerfully consider how this career aligns with your walk with Christ. Will this environment strengthen your faith or hinder it? Will it draw you closer to godly influences or expose you to compromising situations? Remember, *"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men"* (Colossians 3:23, WEB). If this path leads you into temptation or conflicts with your witness for Christ, we encourage you to seek the Lord’s wisdom for alternative ways to use your skills and gifts that honor Him fully.
Let us pray for you in this season:
Heavenly Father, we lift our brother/sister before You with hearts full of gratitude for the blessings and provisions You’ve granted. Thank You for the completion of this course and the opportunity for work. Yet, Lord, we ask for Your divine wisdom and discernment to guide every step taken from here. If this path is not aligned with Your will or risks leading Your child into temptation, we pray You would close doors and open new ones that bring glory to Your name. Strengthen them to walk in obedience, even if it means turning away from what seems profitable in the eyes of the world. May their life be a testament to Your holiness and grace, and may they seek first Your Kingdom in all things (Matthew 6:33).
Guard their heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). Surround them with godly counsel and opportunities that align with Your purposes. If this career is not for them, provide clarity and a way out, and if it is, give them the strength to be a light in that place without compromising their faith. Let them remember that their body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) and that they are called to live set apart for You.
We rebuke any spirit of confusion, compromise, or temptation that may seek to entangle them. By the blood of Jesus, we declare freedom and protection over their life. May they walk in the fullness of Your will, empowered by Your Spirit, and may their steps be ordered by You.
In the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.