Eat, sleep, homework, repeat. So far that’s been the motto of my first semester in college. I’ve learned a lot of new things. First, I’ve learned that even when I finish my homework, there’s still more homework to do. How’s that even possible? Second, I had no idea how difficult it would be to maintain relationships with friends from high school. Third, popcorn is my new best friend. Lastly, I’ve learned to appreciate every quiet moment I can get.

Somehow in the midst of stressing about a new routine, new school, new friends, and new everything, I was able to be still.

This past weekend my friends decided we should get off campus and go hiking, instead of the usual sitting in one of our rooms eating and talking about all of the homework we should be doing.

As we struggled to hike up the mountain, I began to relax and think about how thankful I was. For the weather that day, for the friends I have made, and most importantly, for our wonderful Savior, Jesus Christ. In every direction I looked, I saw trees changing color and for a moment I was still. Why was I so worried about this new season of my life?

I was quickly reminded of one of my favorite verses: “But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?” (Matthew 6:30).

While I stood in awe of the beauty of these trees, I was reminded of Christ’s love for me. I was reminded of the love He has for each and every person I encounter every day. His care is unending. His grace is forever.

It’s amazing how the Lord reveals Himself to you when you take a step back and look for Him. All it took was being still.

My silent prayer during our entire hike was just these two simple sentences: “Here’s my heart, Lord. I give it all to You.” That short prayer has been stuck in my head this entire week. When the stress from homework and different challenges pop up, I pray that prayer.

I push the worry out of my mind and focus on truly being still. If He takes care of the trees when seasons change, how much more will He do the same for you and for me?