For many of us, college is the first time we are truly away from our parents and childhood friends. As a freshmen, nobody on campus knows who we are. Our past stays hidden, our talents are not discovered, and our good qualities are never noticed until we choose to reveal them. It therefore can be quite tempting to not go against your ideals per-say, but to not mention them. I grew up in Christian household and chose to actively participate in my church at home. I genuinely enjoy the church services and being a mentor to younger children. Being so comfortable in my faith gave me the ability it seemed for me to tell others I was Christian and why I am one. While this was not always easy, as I did lose some friendships over it, I knew who I was and I did not want to change myself to be liked by others.
When I moved in freshman year, I was cautious to not deny my faith but at the same time not to speak of it every time I talk. I am not afraid to be judged for my faith, I just understand that there are many perspectives on campus and I wish to respect that. I decided that I would seek out the christian community on campus. To me, having a community of peers helps me continue to grow in my faith. Before I knew it, I found a wonderful group of friends in our Christian fellowship group. They accept me for who I am both as a person and as a Christian. Spending time in our meetings and outside with them, taught me that I did not have to conform to any typical college student stereotype.
I believe the best way to tell others that you are a Christian, is not to preach it. If someone asks me what I did this weekend I would tell them and add in that I went to church or the on campus fellowship group .If they want to bring it up, it is a great opportunity explain my Christian values. If not, they still know that it is a part of me.
Something that I believe is important when it comes to living out your faith in college is "character". Character is who you are and what you do when nobody is looking. I was reminded at a recent christian conference I attended that to have true character you need to walk the walk. In other words, practice what you preach by not shying away from an opportunity to share the godly love you possess. To me this means not only not giving into peer pressure at college and surrounding yourself with friends will keep you grounded, but to share your light wherever possible. Helping someone in need, smiling and inquiring about someones day, encouraging someone when it is a down day. All these actions show the world there is something different about this person that they would be caring and courageous. I am not living for earthly praise, but saved by godly grace.
