As we approach the end of the semester, as college students, we are feeling many different emotions.

The end of spring semester brings hours’ worth of studying, homework, papers, projects, exams, and for some graduation. This can be a lot for a college student and it can lead to unhealthy and unwanted stress and anxiety that hits us from all directions and at different times of the day and night.

This stress and anxiety can lead to poor coping mechanisms and bad habits which can be counterproductive to trying to end the semester strong and with positives outcomes.

The only way I have been able to tolerate and deal with the crazy stress that not only college but also life brings has been to turn to my faith. Putting my faith into God and trusting in His power and the plan he has for me has been my guiding light.

Reading His truth in Bible verses has helped put my mind at ease when stress and anxiety begins to creep back up. Here are eight of my favorite Bible verses that have calmed my anxiety and decreased my stress over the past few weeks as I prepare for exam week:

1. Peter 5:6-7

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, then he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."

2. Deuteronomy 31:6

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

3. Philippians 4:6

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to god."

4. Isaiah 41:10

"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

5. Matthew 11:28

"Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

6. Matthew 6:34

"Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

7. Psalm 94:19

"When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought my joy."

8. Proverbs 3:5-6

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him and he will make your paths straight."