As the new school year is upon us, it’s easy to become anxious. As students, it’s easy to let our fears get the best of us, to let stress hinder us from success, to have negative thoughts cloud our mind, and to become distracted by all of these things, causing us to forget to enjoy what this new school year might bring.
It doesn’t matter what grade, classes, or schools you are in—no matter what, the new school year is stressful, yet an exciting time.
For me, as a soon to be freshmen in college, I am very excited but extremely nervous. These are natural feelings, but at times they can get in the way of what I should be focusing on. Instead of finding the good in the midst of the craziness, and focusing on what God can do in my life, I become worried and afraid of what is to come.
My biggest fear is that I won’t be able to make GOOD FRIENDS. And not just friends that I can have fun with, but friends that are like minded, friends that I feel safe with, friends I can trust, and friends that I can create memories with. This fear not only makes me anxious but often it can distract me from other things. It can distract me from finding friends that maybe don’t fit the description I think they should, and it can also distract me from being able to just relax and enjoy my first year as a college student.
It's feared, as simple as finding friends that can cloud our vision and take our eyes off of what most important to us. For me, my relationship with God is most important. When I let my fear of not having friends get in the way of my relationship with Him, I become bitter, negative, and unhappy. But when I focus on my relationship with God, I can have peace knowing He is with me.
Recently I was reminded during a sermon at church, that in the presence of God I can find calmness and peacefulness.
God leads me, He restores me, and He guides me.
When I believe this, and when I place my faith in Him, I can find that calmness and peacefulness… even in the midst of hardships.
So students, don’t be anxious and don’t let your fears hinder you from focusing on what's most important to you. Find ways to relax once and a while, and clear your mind. Always keep your physical health and emotional health in mind, remembering that good health is a blessing. Maintain relationship with you parents, family, and close friends, and restore relationships that are broken. Work hard in school and at your place of employment, remembering not to overdue it. Put others first, and find ways to serve others. Don’t get caught up in drama, because it only leaves people feeling hurt. Be aware of the decisions you are making (make smart ones!), and take responsibility for your actions. Lastly, be thankful for the good in this world, and pray for peace.
“He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me…….and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
Psalm 23
