Face it. If you're a student, then life isn't easy. Writing this at the beginning of the semester, I hope nobody has jumped on the struggle bus yet, but we can't deny that we will all be at that bus stop at some point. The Good News for a Christian is Jesus himself! But the good news I have for you reading is this: when you get discouraged as a student, God provides His Word to lift us right back up. Never brush the Bible off like it's just another book because it is so much more. It is God's love letter to you, and it is sharper than a double edged sword...
1. When you're worried... Philippians 4:6
This verse is perfect because instead of simply saying not to worry, it says what to do instead of worry. One word: PRAY! It was once said, "PRAYER is the difference between the best YOU CAN DO and the best GOD CAN DO." And in school, sometimes we need more than our best.
2. When you struggle to keep the faith... Galatians 6:9
The harvest implies a lot of different things. First, heaven, the place we all wish we could have a temporary escape to when it comes time to study! However, the word harvest can also imply blessings on earth. So don't give up!
3. When it's time to be social... Prov 27:17
Don't waste your time on friends that don't truly care about your well being. Find friends who lift you up, and be sure to lift them up in return. You can't expect to get by alone.
4. When you need a reminder of your identity in Christ...1 Peter 2:9
If this doesn't make you feel good, then I don't know what will! The Bible has countless verses that remind us of God's love for us, but this one gets specific in how he sees us as his beloved.
5. When you feel alone... Deuteronomy 31:8
Immanuel: God with us! Never let Satan convince you otherwise. If it's not enough that he's with us, He also promises to strengthen us, help us, and uphold us.
6. When you're drained... Psalm 91:1
Dwell in HIS shelter. Seeking rest on our own can do some good, sure, but when we seek rest by sitting back and spending time with God, that's when we feel a deep rest, all the way down to our souls.
7. When you're facing an uncertain future... Deuteronomy 31:8
He already knows each and every detail of your future. He knows the good, and he knows the bad. He even promises to make good out of the bad (Romans 8:28). Hand your uncertainty over to God, and he will direct your steps. Trust him with your future, because he knows you better than you know yourself.
I pray that these verses spoke to you in some way, because they're straight from the God of the universe, who, by the way, promises that nothing can ever separate you from his love (Romans 8:38-39), not struggling grades, worrisome finances, and not even your moments of unfaithfulness to him. I pray that you go as far as to write them out for future encouragement. Lord knows we need it, and that's exactly why He's provided it!
