College is a time in our lives to explore new areas and find ourselves while not even trying. Many times, we need to be reminded of why we are even here and what our purpose is in life. A lot of times we find out who we are and what we want to do for the rest of our lives either in the first semester. Or, it could take until junior year. Wherever you are in your college experience, here are ten things to remember:
1. Your GPA is temporary.
It's hard to not get caught up in the mindset that we are here competing for better grades, especially since most college students are pretty open about their grades and just want to be heard and praised when they get an A in a class. However, grades are temporary and thank God they don't define us.
"But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."
1 Corinthians 15:57-58
2. All good things come from above.
Many times, I see college students forget the reason of their success. We should remember that gifts come from above and we should only boast about Jesus.
"But those who wish to boast should boast in this alone: that they truly know me and understand that I am the LORD who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth, and that I delight in these things. I, the LORD, have spoken!" Jeremiah 9:24
3. Community is important.
While we are in this environment, we have to remember that we are never alone with any of the struggles we are going through. Try joining a group on campus that will keep you accountable in growing closer to God every day.
"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." Philippians 2:3-4
4. You are never too busy to read your bible.
Even just a few minutes to start growing in your faith, will turn into us seeking time to read and learn more.
"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33
5. Greater things are to come.
We should remember the end goal of this education. We will one day be able to put our education to good works and glorify God through that career.
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." Ephesians 2:10
6. Patience.
Our hope is that this goal of ours is reached, sometimes we want it right now. However, it's important to remember that in this atmosphere we are growing and after college, we are off on our own to find a career and officially "adult." While many of us may be ready for that, we can still learn and grow in the place we are right now and trust that good things are ahead. Hard work will pay off.
"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Psalm 23:6
7. There is no prayer too small or big for God.
Any time at all that we feel that we can't continue or we don't know which way to turn, the first thing we should do is pray. God always listens.
"And we are confident that he hears us when we ask for things that please him."
1 John 5:14
8. God's plan is always greater.
It's okay to feel confused or disappointed that a certain idea or major isn't quite working out. It's normal to have to change majors or mindsets. As much as we don't ever want to have to change any of our plans, we may have to explore different areas before we find something that fits us well.
"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men..."
Colossians 3:23
9. God is always present.
Even when we feel alone, God is with us. He guides us and cares for us. You are never alone. Our creator adores and loves you.
"Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?"
Psalm 139:7
10. Trust God's timing.
We may experience a time where nothing is going our way and we are questioning where we are going to end up, but we just have to keep trusting that God will make that purpose for our lives known and call us where he wants us.
"And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19
