It feels like the weeks following fall break are the worst. Most of us are feeling or have felt the weight of classwork, exams, and papers piling up. Then there is the stress of maintaining our relationships, fulfilling our commitments, and finding time to rest. We can all use a little encouragement. This is the perfect time to remind ourselves what God has to say and find our rest in Him. Here are thirteen Bible verses to get you through the rest of this week.
1. 1 Peter 5:7
"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."
This is a verse that has carried me through tough times. Give your anxiety to God, and He will be there for you.
2. 1 Corinthians 10:13
"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it."
You can withstand the temptations surrounding you.
3. Psalm 55:22
"Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken."
David reminds us the Lord is our sustenance, not our grades or Instagram likes.
4. Ephesians 2:10
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
We were created in Jesus for good works! Take comfort in knowing God has a plan for you and it involves works that will prove to be good.
5. Isaiah 41:10
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Some days it does not seem like we can handle all that life is throwing at us. We can take comfort in knowing God will strengthen us.
6. Ecclesiastes 3:1
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"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens."
College is a season of life for you and me. Remember this season is not permanent. Let that knowledge bring you comfort, but let it also be a warning. Find ways to have joy and use your time wisely.
7. Philippians 4:6-7
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
If you are like me, prayer can easily become an afterthought. However, this verse reminds us it is important for us to pray to receive true peace.
8. Romans 8:18
"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us."
There are greater days to come. We may not experience the glory on this earth, but one day we will.
9. Psalm 62:1-2
"Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will never be shaken."
Sometimes it easier to try to be our own rock. We try to sustain ourselves through our work and often fall short. But there is another option that can provide better results.
10. Colossians 3:12
"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."
It is so easy to take our stress out on others. Instead of letting the stress turn us into cold people, take this time to clothe yourself in things that please God.
11. Mark 8:36
"What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?"
Let's be honest, temptations are all around us. Also, not all temptations of the world look like alcohol and parties. What will likes on Instagram, breaking rules to earn better grades, or temporary experiences cost us if we seek them above God? For a bonus verse, read Romans 12:2.
12. John 3:16
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
You are so loved by God. He loves you no matter your grade in Chemistry or how high your GPA is. If He was willing to send Jesus to die for you, do you think He is not willing to be there for you now?
13. 1 John 4:4
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"You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."
It all comes down to this: God is greater than the one who is in the world. God is stronger than all of our challenges. Remember this verse when you think you cannot overcome the challenges you face.
We can take comfort in knowing this season of life is not foreign to God. If we are Christians, then God has our backs during this stressful season and we can find comfort in Him. I encourage you to seek God even as times get stressful! Open your Bible and take comfort in the words written! Pray and let God help you through this week.