I find so much comfort whenever I read verses from the Bible. There are so many things that I am constantly worrying about, but the Bible releases this anxiety. Here are some of my favorite verses that I think each and every one of us can take some time and reflect on.
1. John 8:12
"Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'"
I think one of the most important things in life is realizing that there will be pain and suffering. Before I came to Christ, I blamed him for all the bad things happening in my life. I couldn't understand why I had so many negative feelings about myself. I finally realized that God is the one loves me for who I am. I know that he will bring me to bigger and better things.
2. Matthew 6:33-34
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore, do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."
I challenge you to read more of the Bible this year. I have recently started doing this and it's been such a rewarding experience. Trust me, there will be times where you won't want to put it down. There are so many intriguing stories and lessons that you can learn from it. Whenever you find something you like, make sure to highlight it and then write it down. It's always nice to look it over when there is some free time.
3. Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."
This one has to be my favorite. So many of my friends in college (including myself) are always worried about the future. There are so many things that are out of our control. We can't possibly know what is going to happen in the next five years. We barely even know what we are doing tomorrow! When you trust in God, he will guide you down the path you are supposed to be on. Instead of worrying about getting that internship, focus on your relationship with God. He will only do things that will help you prosper.
4. Romans 8:28
"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
God is doing so many wonderful things in our lives. He is doing things that we don't necessarily notice, but they we will in time. He loves us so much and wants a relationship with us. He is always there for us and wants us to talk to him more. When you let God come into your life, you are allowing him to change your heart. He is changing your heart to do so many good things.
5. Proverbs 3:5-6
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."
I have always been the type of person to want to plan out everything. I like to know all the little details whenever I am making plans. I sometimes think that I know what is best, but I am wrong. Whenever I have let God take control of situations in my life, I have been relieved with so much joy and peace. It takes a lot of strength to understand that we don't know what is best, but knowing God has control is so calming.
6. Ephesians 4:32
"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."
There are so many things that can upset us everyday. Sometimes we have to take a step back and realize that everyone makes mistakes. God has forgiven us for the sins that we have made and he will forgive us for the sins we will make. Whenever you are upset at someone, keep this in mind. We all have a lot going on in our lives and we need to lift each other up. Be kind to people you know and to people you don't know.