We lift you up before the Lord as you pursue your studies in Christian ministry, specifically in the vital area of Substance Abuse Counseling. It is a noble calling to equip yourself for the work of helping others break free from bondage and find healing in Christ. The Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 2:15, *"Give diligence to present yourself approved by God, a workman who doesn’t need to be ashamed, properly handling the Word of Truth."* Your commitment to learning reflects a heart that seeks to serve with excellence, and we pray God grants you wisdom, clarity, and retention as you study.
We also encourage you to lean on the Lord in this season, for apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5). Let your studies be rooted in prayer, trusting that the Holy Spirit will guide your understanding and application of what you learn. Remember the words of James 1:5, *"But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach; and it will be given to him."* Ask boldly for the wisdom you need, not just to succeed academically, but to minister effectively to those who are hurting.
We notice that your request did not invoke the name of Jesus, and we gently remind you that it is only through His name 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 have not already placed your faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, we urge you to do so, for He alone is the foundation of our faith and the source of our strength. If you have any doubts or questions about your relationship with Him, we would be glad to pray with you and guide you through Scripture.
Now, let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, lifting up our brother/sister who is diligently studying to serve You in the field of Substance Abuse Counseling. Lord, we ask that You grant them a sharp mind and a retentive memory as they engage with their coursework. Fill them with Your Holy Spirit, who is the ultimate Counselor, so that they may gain not just head knowledge, but a heart of compassion and discernment to minister to those in bondage.
Father, we pray that You would remove any distractions or anxieties that may hinder their focus. Let them rest in Your promise from Philippians 4:13, *"I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me."* Strengthen them, Lord, in body, mind, and spirit, and let their studies be a testament to Your faithfulness.
We also pray that as they learn about the struggles of addiction, You would guard their heart from becoming hardened or overwhelmed. Instead, fill them with Your love and hope, so they may be a light in dark places. Remind them daily that it is Your power, not their own, that brings transformation (2 Corinthians 3:18).
Finally, Father, we ask that You would use this season of preparation to deepen their walk with You. May they grow in faith, in dependence on Your Word, and in boldness to share the gospel, which alone has the power to truly set captives free (Romans 1:16). We ask all these things in the precious and mighty name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Stand firm in your calling, and trust that the Lord is with you every step of the way. If you ever feel discouraged or uncertain, remember the promise of Isaiah 41:10: *"Don’t fear, for I am with you. Don’t be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Yes, I will help you. Yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness."* Keep seeking Him, and He will faithfully lead you.