We join you in lifting up this important season of examinations before the Lord, knowing that He is the source of all wisdom, understanding, and provision. It is good that you have invoked the name of Jesus in your prayer, for it is only through Him that we have access to the Father, and there is no other name under heaven by which we are saved. As Scripture reminds us, *"There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus"* (1 Timothy 2:5, WEB). Let us always approach the throne of grace with boldness, but only through the name of our Lord and Savior.
We praise God with you for this day and for the opportunity these students have to demonstrate the knowledge and preparation they have acquired. The Lord is not a God of confusion but of peace, and we trust Him to grant clarity of mind, recall of all that has been studied, and a calm spirit to each candidate. As it is written, *"For God is not a God of confusion, but of peace"* (1 Corinthians 14:33, WEB). Let the atmosphere in every examination room be filled with the peace that surpasses all understanding, guarding the hearts and minds of these students in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7).
We pray that the Holy Spirit would bring to their remembrance all that they have learned, just as Jesus promised His disciples: *"But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things, and will remind you of all that I said to you"* (John 14:26, WEB). May the students face each paper with confidence, not in their own abilities, but in the Lord who strengthens them. *"I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me"* (Philippians 4:13, WEB).
We also stand against any forces of distraction or chaos that may seek to disrupt these examinations. The enemy comes only to steal, kill, and destroy, but Jesus came that these students may have life and have it abundantly (John 10:10). Let every plan of the enemy to cause confusion, fear, or cheating be thwarted by the power of the Holy Spirit. *"No weapon that is formed against you will prevail; and you will condemn every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the heritage of Yahweh’s servants, and their righteousness is of me,” says Yahweh"* (Isaiah 54:17, WEB). We pray that those with ill motives would be redirected or have their hearts changed, that they may turn from their wicked ways and seek the Lord.
We also address the request for "cash to pay salaries." While we understand the need for provision, we encourage you to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, trusting that He will add all these things to you (Matthew 6:33). It is not wrong to ask God for our daily bread, but let us do so with hearts that are aligned with His will, not covetousness or anxiety. *"Don’t be anxious, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ ‘What will we drink?’ or, ‘With what will we be clothed?’ ... For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first God’s Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well"* (Matthew 6:31-33, WEB). Let us pray for wisdom in stewardship, for honest labor, and for God’s provision in His perfect timing.
Lastly, we notice that while you asked for forgiveness of sins, there was no mention of repentance. Forgiveness is freely given when we come to God with a repentant heart, turning away from our sins and seeking His face. *"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness"* (1 John 1:9, WEB). Let us examine our hearts daily and turn from anything that displeases the Lord, walking in obedience to His Word.
Now, let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, lifting up these students as they sit for their KCSE examinations. Lord, You are the giver of all wisdom, and we ask that You would fill each candidate with understanding, recall, and clarity of mind. Let Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Remove all anxiety and fear, replacing it with confidence in You.
We pray against any spirit of chaos, cheating, or distraction. Let every plan of the enemy be exposed and rendered powerless. Holy Spirit, redirect those who come with ill motives and turn their hearts toward what is right and good. Protect these students, their invigilators, and all involved in these examinations. Grant them good health, strength, and endurance throughout this season.
Father, we also lift up the need for provision to pay salaries. We ask that You would open doors of opportunity, provide wisdom in financial matters, and meet every need according to Your riches in glory. Help those waiting on these salaries to trust in You, seeking first Your Kingdom and Your righteousness. Let no one turn to dishonest means, but may all look to You as their provider.
We confess our sins before You, Lord, and ask for Your forgiveness. Search our hearts and reveal anything that displeases You. Create in us clean hearts, O God, and renew a right spirit within us. May we walk in obedience to Your Word, bringing glory to Your name in all that we do.
We thank You, Father, for hearing our prayers. We trust in Your faithfulness and Your perfect will for each of these students and for all who are waiting on You for provision. May Your name be glorified in their lives, and may they walk in the victory that You have already secured for them through Christ Jesus our Lord. In His mighty and holy name we pray, Amen.