The beginning of January is a trying time for college students from all over. Nearly a month spent at home enjoying the Christmas season with friends and family, amazing homemade food, no homework or studying, and endless amounts of sleep where you aren't forced to get up to complete an essay or a project makes it pretty easy for a college kid to stay in a break mindset forever. No matter what part of the country you're in, we are all united in one inevitable event that is quickly approaching: spring semester. I may not know who you are or where you go to school, but if I had to take a guess, you probably aren't looking forward to packing up all of your things in your car on a cold January morning to move back to your college town, but there is some really good news you need to know about the jam-packed semester ahead; King Jesus already knows how this semester is going to turn out for you and...HE IS WITH YOU.

Yes! This is true. And I'm believing it for all who need to hear it. Maybe you're a business major and you've got an internship lined up for this semester. Tons of expectations and responsibilities placed upon your shoulders that you aren't sure how to handle, and the last thing you want is to fall short of your leaders' expectations. 1 Peter 5:7 "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." He doesn't want you carrying this load all alone. He wants to take it for you. Let Him!

Are you a nursing major? Starting clinicals in a hospital this semester, huh? I can only imagine how excited you are to finally get on the floor and see what the nurse life is all about. I can also only imagine some of the pressure you must be feeling knowing that very soon, it will be you that future nurses are shadowing, because you will be the real life nurse. Having people's health and lives in your hands is quite a blessing, especially being able to encourage and comfort those patients who feel fearful and alone. When I think of you all, I think of Hebrews 13:1-2 "Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it." Keep shining that hospitable heart, you nurses: for He is with you.

Science and Mathematics majors anywhere? I may not be on quite the same intellect level as many of you are, but that doesn't mean I don't have mad respect for what you're pursuing. One day all of these higher level classes you're experiencing now will pay off, because you'll be the one designing, building, and using the mind you've been so graciously given to make decisions and implement new ideas that will make life better and easier for people of all ages. I may not know all of the little details that your dream encompasses, but I know that it isn't easy for you every minute of every day. Frustration probably tries to accompany you while finding solutions for chemistry, statistics, physics, and trig. Luke 1:50 "His mercy extends to those who fear Him, from generation to generation." Just like the big ideas you'll bring to life one day that will affect people for years upon years, so will God's love and mercy filled reign cover you all of these difficult days and more.

While these are just a few examples of some of the real life fears and struggles college students of all different majors face day in and day out, you need to know you're covered too. Psalm 91:4 "He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart." College kid, this is for you! Accept it. All the heavy lifting has been done for you. You're only job this semester is to experience the trials it may bring, handle it with grace, and be reminded that what you are experiencing is a beacon of hope and light to those who need to know that there is a way maker when it seems that there is no way... and His name is Jesus. Happy spring semester, friends!