Dear Christian College Student,
College can be so hard and some days it may feel like it’s impossible to keep your faith strong. You’re trying to find yourself with the new freedom you possess, and on top of finding yourself; there are negative influences everywhere. Some days you’re going to be hurt, and feel like dropping out. During those days, pray a little harder and keep your faith strong.
Here are four lessons I wish every college student could hear:
1. Do NOT ever change for someone else.
God spent a long time crafting you, and God doesn’t make worthless things. You will make mistakes--it's part of life. But in these mistakes, learn from them and better yourself. Don’t completely change yourself for others. If someone tells you that you need to change to be their friend; pray that they will gain acceptance for everyone. God created you in His very own image. He looks past your mistakes and He looks right at you and says, “There’s my masterpiece. That’s my son. That’s my daughter.”
2. Don’t stress over the little things.
Yeah, college is stressful; it’s not meant to be easy. You will triumph and you will fail. Celebrate your triumphs and work to improve your failures. You’re not accomplishing anything by worrying and stressing out on the little things. We don’t grow when things are easy; we grow when we face challenges. So “cast your burden upon the LORD, and he will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken” Psalm (55:22). After all, stress makes you believe everything has to happen right now, and faith reassures you that everything will happen in God’s timing.
3. Keep friends who can hold you accountable.
As Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” Choose your friends wisely and make sure they are friends who help you become a better person. College is a time for exploring and for making new friends; don’t let one bad friend ruin your morals.
4. Remember to give thanks in all things possible.
The four classes you had today may have worn you out, but be thankful for the ability to have attended those classes. Sometimes it can be hard to give thanks in all things, but with consistency, it will get better. Everyone has negativity in their lives; work to find the positivity and shed that light to others. Just remember, “In all things give thanks.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18
You only live once, so live each day to the fullest, and never forget your creator.
Sincerely,
A Christian Girl
