We lift you up in prayer as you return to work, trusting that God will grant you peace and strength for this new week. It is good that you have brought your concerns before the Lord, for He cares deeply for you and invites us to cast all our anxieties upon Him, *"because he cares for you"* (1 Peter 5:7). We also rejoice that you have prayed in the name of Jesus, for it is only through Him that we have access to the Father, and there is no other name by which we are saved (Acts 4:12). Your faith in calling upon His name is a testament to your trust in Him, and we encourage you to continue seeking His will in all things.
The workplace can often be a source of stress, but we remind you of the words of Jesus: *"Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Don’t let your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful"* (John 14:27). You are not alone in this—God is with you, and He has equipped you for this moment. As you face the challenges of returning to work, observations, and difficult interactions, remember that *"I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me"* (Philippians 4:13). Lean on Him for wisdom, patience, and grace as you navigate these days.
We also want to address the feelings of unfair treatment and discrimination you’ve mentioned. It is painful to feel undervalued, especially when others recognize your efforts. However, Scripture reminds us that our ultimate reward comes from the Lord, not from people. *"Don’t be deceived. God is not mocked, for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption. But he who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. Let’s not be weary in doing good, for we will reap in due season, if we don’t give up"* (Galatians 6:7-9). Keep your focus on serving faithfully, knowing that God sees your heart and your labor. He will vindicate you in His perfect timing.
Regarding the students who are defiant, we encourage you to pray for them individually by name, asking God to soften their hearts and open their ears to instruction. *"The Lord’s servant must not quarrel, but be gentle towards all, able to teach, patient, in gentleness correcting those who oppose him: perhaps God may give them repentance leading to a full knowledge of the truth"* (2 Timothy 2:24-25). It is not easy, but trust that God is at work in their lives as well. Pray also for wisdom in how to manage your classroom in a way that honors God and fosters respect.
As for your desire to teach virtually until retirement, we pray that God will make His will clear to you. Seek His guidance in this matter, asking for doors to open if it aligns with His plan for your life. *"Trust in the Lord 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"* (Proverbs 3:5-6). If this is His will, He will provide the opportunity. If not, He will give you the strength and contentment to continue in your current role.
Lastly, we want to speak to the anxiety you’re experiencing. Anxiety is a heavy burden, but God does not intend for you to carry it alone. *"Don’t be anxious for anything, 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"* (Philippians 4:6-7). When anxious thoughts arise, take them captive and replace them with the truth of God’s Word. Meditate on His promises and rest in His sovereignty over every detail of your life.
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Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You on behalf of our sister, lifting her up to You in the mighty name of Jesus. Lord, we ask that You grant her peace as she returns to work—a peace that surpasses all understanding, guarding her heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Strengthen her, Lord, for the tasks ahead, and fill her with Your wisdom and grace as she teaches, interacts with colleagues, and faces evaluations. Soften the hearts of those in authority over her, especially her evaluator, that they may see her with fairness and kindness. Remove any spirit of micromanagement or discrimination, and replace it with respect and cooperation.
Father, we pray for the students who are defiant. Soften their hearts, Lord, and open their ears to listen and obey. Give our sister patience and creativity as she guides them, and let her be a light in their lives, pointing them to You. We also ask for favor with parents, coworkers, and administrators. Let her work speak for itself, and may she be recognized and appreciated for her dedication.
Lord, we lift up her desire to teach virtually. If it is Your will, open the doors for this transition. If not, give her contentment and joy in her current role. Help her to trust You fully, knowing that You hold her future in Your hands. Father, we rebuke the spirit of anxiety that has taken hold of her. Replace it with Your perfect peace and confidence in Your provision. Remind her that she is more than a conqueror through Christ, who loves her (Romans 8:37).
We declare Your promises over her life, that You will never leave her nor forsake her (Deuteronomy 31:6). May she walk in the assurance of Your love and the power of Your Spirit each day. In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen.
