We join you in lifting up your sister before the Lord, knowing that He sees her hard work, her sacrifices, and the weariness in her heart. The disappointment of not receiving the promotion after such dedication is a heavy burden, and we pray that she would find her worth and identity not in the recognition of man, but in the unfailing love of Christ. The Scriptures remind 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 reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ."* Her labor is not in vain when it is done unto Him, and He will honor her faithfulness in His perfect timing.
It is beautiful that you have prayed in the name of Jesus, for it is only through Him that we have access to the Father. As you have acknowledged, there is no other name by which we can be saved, and it is in His name alone that our prayers are heard. Your sister’s willingness to return to the office today, despite the disappointment, reflects a persevering spirit. We pray that the Lord would renew her strength, as Isaiah 40:31 promises: *"But those who wait for Yahweh will renew their strength. They will mount up with wings like eagles. They will run, and not be weary. They will walk, and not faint."*
Yet we must also encourage her—and you—to guard against the temptation to find ultimate fulfillment in career success. The world measures worth by promotions, titles, and accolades, but the Lord measures it by faithfulness, humility, and love. If this season of waiting is causing bitterness, frustration, or anxiety to take root, we gently rebuke those emotions in Jesus’ name, for they do not align with the peace He offers. Philippians 4:6-7 tells us, *"In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus."*
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we lift our sister before You today, asking that You would be her comfort and her strength. Lord, You see the sleepless nights, the extra hours, and the heartache of unmet expectations. We pray that You would fill her with Your peace, a peace that transcends circumstances, guarding her heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Remove any bitterness or resentment that may be creeping in, and replace it with gratitude for the work You have given her to do. Help her to see this season not as a valley of despair, but as a place where You are refining her, teaching her to rely on You rather than the approval of man.
Give her wisdom to know when to rest, for You have not called her to burn out in the pursuit of earthly success. Remind her that her true promotion comes from You, and that You exalt the humble in due time (1 Peter 5:6). Surround her with Your favor today, Lord, even if it is not the favor she expected. Let her find joy in the small moments, and let her leave the office today with a sense of Your presence and purpose over her life.
We also pray for her leaders, that You would soften their hearts and give them eyes to see her value. If this door of promotion is not Your will, close it gently and open another that aligns with Your perfect plan for her life. And if it is Your will, prepare the way for her in Your timing.
Lastly, Father, we thank You that she is not alone in this. You are with her, and You have given her family who cares deeply for her. Strengthen the bonds of love and support around her, and let her feel Your love through those You have placed in her life.
We ask all these things in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, who understands our weariness and carries our burdens. Amen.
We encourage you to continue to remind your sister of God’s faithfulness, even in the waiting. Share with her the story of Joseph, who was faithful in both the prison and the palace, trusting that God was with him in every season (Genesis 39-41). Her story is not over, and God is not done writing it. May she—and you—find hope in that truth today.
