It is that time of the year again. Some people dread it, while others count down the days. The beginning of a new school year. The nervousness and anxiousness always start to set in during the last couple days before classes begin. Clothes are hung, books are purchased, and supplies are prepared. Nevertheless, getting back into the routine of everything is an adventure.

As new things begin and new challenges arise, it is easy to develop and dwell in a negative mindset. It is extremely important to stay positive or at least neutral about things that we are unsure of. From experience and observation, I have noticed that going into a task or activity with negative expectations typically produces more negative results. Conversely, going into a new environment with the mindset that it will go well, or at least alright, generally results in a more positive ending.

Something to keep in mind when the nerves get too real is Exodus 14:14.

"The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still."

Believers and followers of Christ get the opportunity to rejoice in this. The Lord will fight for us! It is so comforting after moving into a new dorm, not sure how everything is going to work out with classes and whatnot, to have assurance in the fact that the Lord will fight for us and that we just need to let Him. We often try to control the outcome, when really we just need to adapt to change and embrace the unknown.

Another great verse to consider when life gets too overwhelming is 2 Timothy 1:7, which says:

"For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline."

All too often, we get overwhelmed with the craziness of life and we just accept that it is supposed to be that way. The fact of the matter is that we were not created to dwell in the stress and nervousness that is accompanied with responsibility and life in general. This verse helps us remember that we are powerful, that we are not only capable of loving others, but that we are loved, and that we are created with an aspect of being responsible for ourselves.

With all this in mind, it is easy to tell ourselves that we will not let ourselves get too nervous or overwhelmed with the obstacles we face; however, it is sometimes difficult to apply a positive outlook. Staying level-headed and rooted in the Word is definitely something that helps with overcoming rough spots. So whether it is college, high school, or other challenges we face in life, always try to remain calm and remember that your mindset going into something will likely affect your mindset coming out of something.