It is finally beginning to feel like fall. The leaves are changing, the temperature is gradually dropping, football season is happening, and Halloween and Thanksgiving are approaching. Just like the weather outside is changing from one season to the next, many of us are moving from one season of life to another.
Some just left high school behind to attend college, others are headed to grad school after receiving a bachelor’s degree, and many recent college grads are entering the workforce. Life may be changing fast but the Lord is always with us and “is the same today, yesterday, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). If you are facing challenges during a period of transition, I encourage you to read through what God has to say about change in the Bible.
Even though college began a couple months ago, you or someone you know may be still struggling with leaving high school behind to attend a university. Adjusting to an unfamiliar environment, experiencing a new sense of freedom, and making friends can be challenging if you are a college freshman. Getting used to a new campus and culture or learning how to manage your time and handle new responsibilities can be overwhelming. “Do not be anxious about anything” but in “every situation” turn your worries over to the Lord and he will give you peace (Philippians 4:6). If you are struggling to form friendships or are wishing you were back home with a sister or mom to confide in, remember the Lord is always “with you” and “will never leave you or forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6). As you adjust to your new college life, don’t forget to do things you never would have done in high school (join a club or student government or get involved with a campus ministry), utilize the chance to reinvent yourself, and enjoy the opportunity to study something you are passionate about.
After taking advantage of these opportunities and fully embracing all that college has to offer, some students may graduate and head to grad school. The transition from working towards a bachelor’s degree to pursuing a master’s degree can be challenging for students. The task of leaving your college friends, reputation, and community behind and starting over is exciting but daunting. “Do not lose courage or be afraid” of what lies ahead but embrace every new opportunity, including the chance learn more about a subject that interests you (Deuteronomy 31:8). Even though you may be passionate about what you are studying, your grad school coursework is probably tougher than your earlier college classes. Through every trying group project, late night of work, and early morning lecture, “pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). As you become more comfortable in your grad school environment, build relationships with your teachers and fellow students, explore your campus and the city around you, and take time to pursue old and new hobbies.
Upon receiving their master’s degrees, grad students will follow the lead of their friends who went straight from college into the workforce. Recent college grads have to take on new “grown up” responsibilities and cope with no longer living minutes away from their college friends. The first big challenge for many grads is to find just the right entry-level job and city to live in. As you have job interviews “trust in the Lord with all your heart” (Proverbs 3:5-6) and remember that God has great plans for you and will lead you to just the right situation (Jeremiah 29:11). After starting work and moving out of your parent’s house, you’ll acquire several new responsibilities. If you are dealing with stress from paying bills and student loans or are feeling overwhelmed at your new job, know that the Lord’s “compassions never fail and are new every morning” and he will be faithful to you even in this confusing time (Lamentations 3:22-23). As you gradually get used to post-grad life, enjoy exploring your new hometown, forming new relationships with your work colleagues, and learning skills at your job.
The transition not only from college to the workplace, but also from college to grad school and high school to college can be tough. As you enter a new phase of life, rely on the Lord for strength and remember “there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1).
