I have been a
Christian my whole life, but it was not until my freshman year at ODU that I
started to see a change in myself because of God. I was learning so much about
Him and myself. Through my experiences, I have learned a few different things
that can hopefully be a help to you as you complete your college years:
1. Surround yourself
with people who live for God. I'm not saying to ONLY hang out with Christians,
but getting involved with a local church or a campus ministry is so great.
Having community with other believers builds you up. This gives you and others
the chance to pray for each other and learn about God through each other.
2. Trust Him no matter
what the situation is. Whether it be a tough class that you are not
understanding, or you have a heart break with pain that seems like it might
last forever. Always trust that the Lord's plan is a good one and is better
than your plan, even when you feel like crap.
Romans 8:18 For I
consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with
the glory that is to be revealed to us.
3. Take chances. Don't
be scared to try something new. Go travel while you are young and have the
chance in college. Get up on stage and sing a song no matter how nervous you
are. Still do your homework and study, but make some time for hanging with
friends, having fun, and doing things you may not get to do again. I took a
chance going on a Summer Project missions trip to San Diego this past summer.
It was such a great experience to travel to the West Coast and meet others from
across the U.S who wanted to learn more about Jesus and tell others about Him.
It was something I did not think I'd ever do, but stepping out of your comfort
zone in this way can be a blessing to you and to others.
4. Read the Bible and
spend time with God. It seems like something so simple but it really does make
a difference. What you learn in the Bible are things you can apply to your
lives. Being in college is very busy. School, working, and social life can take
over. But just a few minutes of each day praying to the Lord and reading some
scripture will be so effective in your life.
I pray that this last
verse is an encouragement to you through college and life as it is to me:
Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
Have I not commanded
you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the
Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
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