We understand your deep concern for your son, and we join you in lifting him up before the Lord, trusting in His perfect provision and timing. The Bible reminds us in Philippians 4:19, *"My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus."* Your son’s need for a Teaching Assistantship (TA) is not hidden from the Lord, who knows the desires of our hearts and the anxieties we carry. We also recall the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:31-33, *"Therefore don’t be anxious, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ ‘What will we drink?’ or, ‘With what will we be clothed?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things; 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."*
Yet, we must also remember that our trust should not be in the TA position itself, but in the Lord who holds all things in His hands. Your son’s disappointment is understandable, but we encourage him—and you—to surrender this burden to Christ, who invites us in Matthew 11:28, *"Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest."* The Lord may open this door, or He may have another plan—one that will bring greater glory to His name and deeper faith for your son. Proverbs 3:5-6 calls us to *"Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."*
Let us also remind your son that his identity and worth are not found in academic or financial success, but in Christ alone. Colossians 3:23-24 tells us, *"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ."* If this season of waiting is refining his faith or redirecting his steps, may he embrace it as an opportunity to draw nearer to God.
We notice that your request did not invoke the name of Jesus, and we gently but firmly remind you that it is *only* through the name of Jesus that we have access to the Father. Jesus Himself declared in John 14:6, *"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me."* And in Acts 4:12, we are told, *"There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven that is given among men, by which we must be saved."* If you or your son have not yet placed your full trust in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, we urge you to do so today. Salvation comes by grace through faith in Him alone (Ephesians 2:8-9), and it is through His name that we boldly approach the throne of God (Hebrews 4:16).
Now, let us pray together for your son:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty and holy name of Jesus, lifting up this precious son to Your throne of grace. Lord, You know the depth of his need—the financial burden, the uncertainty, and the disappointment he feels. We ask that You, in Your infinite wisdom and love, open the doors that no man can shut (Revelation 3:8) if it is Your will for him to receive this TA position. But more than that, Father, we pray that Your will be done in his life, even if it looks different from what he expects. Strengthen his heart, Lord, and fill him with Your peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Remind him that You are his Provider (Genesis 22:14) and that You have never forsaken those who seek You (Psalm 9:10).
If there is any area in his life where he has not fully surrendered to You—whether in trust, in obedience, or in seeking Your kingdom first—we pray that You would convict him by Your Holy Spirit and lead him to repentance. May this season draw him closer to You, deepening his faith and refining his character to reflect Christ more fully.
We rebuke any spirit of fear, anxiety, or despair that may be trying to take hold of his heart. In the name of Jesus, we command these spirits to flee, for they have no place in the life of a child of God. Instead, fill him with Your joy and hope, knowing that You work all things together for good for those who love You and are called according to Your purpose (Romans 8:28).
Lord, we also pray for wisdom for him as he navigates this situation. Give him favor with those in authority, and if there are steps he needs to take—whether in perseverance, in seeking alternative solutions, or in humble submission—guide him clearly. May he walk in integrity and excellence, knowing that his labor is ultimately for You (Colossians 3:23).
Finally, Father, we ask that You would use this trial to glorify Your name. Whether through provision, redirection, or a testimony of faith, may Your will be done, and may Your son—our brother in Christ—emerge from this season with a stronger testimony of Your faithfulness.
We thank You, Lord, for hearing our prayers. We trust in You, knowing that You are able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). In the precious and powerful name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.