Prayer for studies

[Chrysostom]

I see your need and will pray for you, but let these words also guide you. You ask for help with your practical procedure and viva? Then do not grieve over the perishing of ease and self-trust. Instead, earnestly seek the completion of that destruction, for it is the burning away of thorns. If we cut out and burn the thorns of sloth, distraction, and fear, we shall be approved and partake of blessing. Do not merely endure the hard preparation; desire it to consume every hindrance, for this most conducts you to what is immortal and lasting.

Why do I speak of this part of practical morality? Because your nursing is itself a work of mercy, a practical following of Christ. As the patriarchs went down to Egypt to escape famine, and by their sojourn sanctified the land until His return, so now you go down into the wards and the examination hall. Offer that descent to Christ, and He will sanctify that place and your memory.

Do not worry about what examiners may think or say. Of the holy Apostles, Paul said, “Of those who were reputed to be somewhat, it maketh no matter to me. I accuse not nor traduce those men; to God must they render their account.” So it is with your examiners. Do your work diligently, and leave the judgment to God. If you continue cutting away the thorns, you will complete your procedure and viva with a quiet mind, and God will give the increase.

We will pray for you. But you also pray, and add to your prayer the alms of kindness to your patients, for such treasure lays up a good foundation. Then you will not taste the fire of paralyzing anxiety, but will finish your course and rejoice.

 

[Silas]

It is easy to feel overwhelmed when a practical exam and a viva are looming, as if the whole weight of your studies rests on that one moment. But remember the picture Scripture gives us: a nursing mother cannot forget the child at her breast, her compassion runs deep. Even if such a love were to fail, God declares He will never forget you. That same attentive care is upon you now as you prepare and as you walk into that room.

There is something beautifully down-to-earth about your request. Nursing is itself a very practical calling, full of procedures, details, and hands-on care. And our faith meets us right there. The Lord does not expect us to float through life in some spiritual haze, ignoring the real work in front of us. He made the body and the mind, and He intends for us to be practical. Just as we tend to ordinary things, like eating, resting, and yes, even cutting our nails, we can ask Him to steady our hands and clarify our thoughts for a practical exam. That is not too small for Him. He is the one who ordained the eighth day for an offering, yet first instructed the mother to nurse the young animal for seven days. He pays attention to the details of life.

So when anxiety starts to press in, take a breath and place the whole thing in His hands. A frantic, fearful mind hinders clear thinking, but a quiet trust says, “Lord, it’s Yours. Work out what You will. I’ll show up and do my part.” That kind of surrender is not passive; it frees you to focus without the weight of panic.

And think on this: He who has brought you through your course this far will not abandon you at the finish line. Having carried you to this point, you can be confident He will see it through. Stand on that promise, prepare diligently, and then rest in the knowledge that He is not ashamed of those who wait for Him. May you know His peace as you complete your procedure and viva.