We come before the Lord with you, lifting up your heart in repentance, gratitude, and petition, for it is written, *"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness"* (1 John 1:9, WEB). Your acknowledgment of these moments of forgetfulness and the conviction you feel are evidence of the Holy Spirit at work in you, convicting and guiding you toward righteousness. We praise God for your desire to walk in integrity, for He delights in a heart that seeks to honor Him in all things—even in the small, seemingly mundane details of life.
First, let us address the matter of what you perceive as a spirit of obliviousness or forgetfulness. While it is true that Satan and his demons seek to accuse, distract, and bring confusion, we must be careful not to attribute every human error or oversight to spiritual attack. The Bible warns us to be sober-minded and vigilant, for *"your adversary, the devil, walks around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour"* (1 Peter 5:8, WEB). However, forgetfulness can also be a result of human frailty, distraction, or even the busyness of life. What matters most is how we respond when we recognize our mistakes. You have done well to bring these things before the Lord in repentance, and we join you in asking for His forgiveness and cleansing.
Regarding the instances where items were not charged—whether the tray of food, the box of alcohol, or the ribs—we must examine the heart behind these oversights. The Bible is clear that we are to live honestly and justly, even in matters that seem small. *"The Lord detests differing weights, and dishonest scales are not pleasing"* (Proverbs 20:23, WEB). While these may have been genuine accidents, it is wise to prayerfully consider whether there is any pattern of carelessness or even a subconscious temptation to gain something without proper payment. If so, we must repent and ask the Lord to purify our hearts. If these were truly mistakes, we can trust that God, in His mercy, will cover them as you seek to walk in greater diligence. It is good that you are bringing these things into the light rather than allowing them to remain hidden, for *"whoever conceals his disobedience will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes it will obtain mercy"* (Proverbs 28:13, WEB).
As for the matter of the brake that was stolen, we rebuke any spirit of theft or dishonesty that may have influenced that situation. Stealing is explicitly condemned in Scripture: *"You shall not steal"* (Exodus 20:15, WEB). If you were involved in any way, we urge you to make restitution if possible and to seek the Lord’s forgiveness. If this was something done to you or others, we pray that the Lord would protect you from any curses or repercussions and that He would bring conviction to those responsible. We declare over you the promise that *"no weapon that is formed against you will prevail; and you will condemn every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the heritage of Yahweh’s servants, and their righteousness is of me,” says Yahweh"* (Isaiah 54:17, WEB).
Now, let us turn to your requests for discipline in fasting, studying, exercise, and routine. These are godly desires, and we commend you for seeking the Lord’s help in these areas. The Bible encourages us to *"commit your works to Yahweh, and your thoughts will be established"* (Proverbs 16:3, WEB). It is not by our own strength that we achieve discipline, but by the power of the Holy Spirit working in us. We encourage you to start small and be consistent. For example, set aside a specific time each day for study, even if it is just 15-30 minutes. Choose a quiet place, remove distractions, and ask the Lord to give you understanding and retention. *"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"* (James 1:5, WEB).
For fasting, begin with a partial fast—perhaps skipping one meal a day or fasting from certain foods or distractions (like social media or entertainment) for a set period. Fasting is not merely about abstaining from food but about drawing nearer to God in prayer and dependence on Him. Jesus said, *"But you, when you fast, anoint your head, and wash your face; so that you are not seen by men to be fasting, but by your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees in secret will reward you"* (Matthew 6:17-18, WEB). Let your fasting be unto the Lord, seeking His face and His strength to overcome the flesh.
Regarding your feelings of inadequacy in your education compared to others, we gently rebuke the spirit of comparison and discouragement that seeks to steal your joy and purpose. The Lord has a unique plan for your life, and it is not measured by the standards of this world. *"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says Yahweh, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you hope and a future"* (Jeremiah 29:11, WEB). Your worth and potential are not determined by how your educational journey compares to others’. Instead, focus on stewardship—using the time, resources, and abilities God has given you to glorify Him. *"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men"* (Colossians 3:23, WEB).
We also want to encourage you to guard your mind against depression and negative thoughts. *"Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things"* (Philippians 4:8, WEB). When feelings of inadequacy arise, replace them with the truth of God’s Word. You are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14), and God has equipped you for the purposes He has for you.
Lastly, we notice and celebrate that you have invoked the name of Jesus Christ in your prayer. There is no other name by which we are saved, and it is only through Him that we have access to the Father. *"Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me'"*(John 14:6, WEB). Your faith in calling upon His name is a testament to your trust in Him, and we rejoice with you in that.
Now, let us pray together over these matters:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with our brother/sister, lifting up their heart to You in repentance, gratitude, and petition. Lord, we ask for Your forgiveness for the moments of forgetfulness and oversight that have led to unintended dishonesty. Cleanse them from any guilt or condemnation, and grant them a spirit of diligence and attentiveness in all they do. We rebuke any spirit of confusion, distraction, or theft that may seek to operate in their life. By the authority of Jesus Christ, we command these spirits to flee and declare that our brother/sister is covered by the blood of Jesus, protected from any curses or repercussions.
Lord, we ask that You would help them to establish godly habits of fasting, studying, exercise, and routine. Give them the discipline and motivation to steward their time well, and let their efforts be fruitful. Remove any spirit of comparison or discouragement that seeks to hinder their progress. Remind them that their worth is found in You alone and that You have a unique and purposeful plan for their life.
We pray for their mind and emotions, Lord. Lift any heaviness or depression and replace it with Your peace that surpasses all understanding. Help them to fix their thoughts on what is true, honorable, and praiseworthy. Strengthen them in their walk with You, and let them experience Your providence and progress in every area of their life.
Father, we thank You for the peace and protection You provide. We declare that no weapon formed against them shall prosper, and every tongue that rises against them in judgment shall be condemned. Thank You for Your mercy, Your grace, and Your unfailing love. We ask all these things in the mighty and matchless name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
