Every interview I have been a part of has been unique. Whether I was conducting the interview or fighting my nerves to keep calm while answering challenging questions, each interview had its own feel and energy. Some interviews made me laugh, some even made me cry. But all of them taught me a great deal about myself and others.
I interviewed for a position recently, and that interview had many of these qualities. To make sure I was at my best, I did a few things to prepare. I got a good night's rest the day before and made sure I ate well in the morning. I thought through questions the interviewers might ask and how I would respond. I mentally prepared myself to communicate with warmth and enthusiasm.
I took these steps to limit my nervousness when the interview came, and while this preparation did help, it was spiritual preparation that brought the most peace and clarity when the moment came.
Encouragement for Before a Job Interview
As I was preparing for the life change that this job could bring, I held close to these words of Jesus in Luke 12:
Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life? Luke 12:24-25 NIV
Jesus pleads with his audience to consider, "How much more valuable are you than the birds?" The answer? Infinitely.
It’s easy to let our job title or income define our self-worth.
It’s easy to let our job title or income define our self-worth. When we do, we put so much pressure on ourselves to attain what we determine are the most desirable and lucrative careers and positions. But what if we shifted our perspective and found our value in what God says about us?
God says you are loved fully and perfectly exactly as you are. Before you were ever in line for that promotion, got that degree, or applied for that new position, God loved you so much that He sent His son Jesus to provide you peace and wholeness. You are so valuable, and God declares you worthy of the greatest love imaginable. (John 15:13)
5 Job Interview Prayers
As you step into your upcoming interview, I encourage you to ground yourself in the following Bible verses. Maybe memorize the one that encourages you most and let that be your prayer as you let go of panic and take hold of prayer.
Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. Luke 12:6-7 NIV
Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:3-6 NIV
Praying the verses above and the interview prayers below may not take away all of your nerves, but when you practice inviting God into your interview spaces and trusting that He is taking care of you in every circumstance, your faith will grow.
1. A Prayer for Before a Job Interview
God, thank You for bringing me this opportunity. I feel anxious and intimidated. I pray for a calm heart and calm spirit. Please help me to be focused, authentic, and articulate. I surrender my plans and expectations to you, God. I give You my worries and stress and take hold of the truth that you love me completely. I pray that You’ll give me the confidence and strength I need for this interview. I trust Your will and perfect plan for my life. Amen.
2. A Prayer for the Interviewing Team
God, I pray for the team preparing to interview me. Please prompt them to ask the questions they need to make the best decision for their team. Lord, I ask that You’ll calm their nerves and give them a clear and sound mind. I trust that You are working all things for Your purpose, including this interview. Amen.
3. A Prayer for Interview Success
God, thank You for this interview. Help me to calm my nerves and the stress I’m feeling so I can be focused on the questions I’m asked. I pray that my responses will resonate with the hiring team. Please, Father, I ask that you would give me favor with the interviewers and an opportunity to step onto their team. Amen.
4. A Prayer for After the Interview
God, thank You for giving me the opportunity to interview for this role. I ask that you would remind the hiring team of my skills, qualifications, and character. Please provide me with patience as I wait for a response. I know the final decision is in Your hands. Please help me to find joy, no matter the outcome. In Jesus’ name, amen.
5. A Prayer for a Friend’s Job Interview
God, thank You for giving my friend a chance to get a new job. Please help them remain calm and confident as they interview. Give them the right words to say so they can represent themselves well. I ask that they trust You completely, no matter the result. In Jesus’ name, amen.
You Are Fully Loved
Long before you were invited to this interview, you were loved completely. There is no outcome on the other side of this interview that will limit or alter the amount of love that has been, and will forever continue to be, poured out for you.
When you feel tempted to focus on the comfort or chaos that comes with the “what ifs” beyond this interview, remember that Jesus has you on His mind. (Psalm 8:4) Take refuge in His promise that He cares about you. Walk outside and notice Jesus’ teaching—see the flowers and their bright colors. Pause and listen to the birds.
Remember: If God cares enough about the flowers to clothe them, and enough about the birds to feed them, how much more does He love and care about you? Infinitely.