As college semesters have begun or are about to begin, it is easy to get busy and stressed. Going in with a solid foundation is the best way to start off on the right foot and to have a good semester.
1. For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11
While this may seem like one of the more common verses, it is important to fully understand this. When we are not sure what the future holds, is my major right? Do I need to get an internship? What happens if I don’t find a job after I graduate? These concerns can be cast at God’s feet.
2. I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
Jeremiah 32:27
Often times we get so caught up- How can I do this? I cannot handle this. What am I supposed to do? I. I. I. The harsh truth is. We cannot handle everything thrown at as. However with God we can. If he can handle anything, then so can we.
3. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9
We are not alone! Through every failed or passed exam, hardship, all-nighter- we have not reason to feel weak or nervous.
4. Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:6,7
Anxiety… That often feels like the college student anthem. We are not called to be anxious or stressed. We need to focus on worship and not worrying.
5. Remember, it is better to suffer for doing good, if that is what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong!
1 Peter 3:17
College has tons of “fun” appeal. Let’s not be unrealistic, the glorified college life of partying, getting drunk, sleeping around, and so on, may have an appeal. Yet, at the end of the night, you’re left with snip bits of memories, and a hang-over. While it may seem suffering to give up some social life, it is worth it. Not only are you glorifying God, but you also have plenty of places to create fruitful friendships.
6. Seek the Kingdom of God[a] above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.
Matthew 6:33
God first. This may be easy to say but hard to mean from the heart. College is about getting ready for the future. It is so easy to put out plans and dreams first. School first. Networking **cough cough socializing** first. While those may be good things, we need God. God’s plan will always work out to be best for us in the end.
