Starting college is the equivalent to starting a new journey in life. You will be exposed to many things you haven't seen before so it's great to remember that our God is never changing. Despite the different people and temptations we are sure to encounter throughout our college experience, He will never leave us.

Freshman year is weird for some of us. For some of us, starting college means leaving our parents and old friends for the first time. It can be very lonely trying to meet new people and figure out what you will do for the rest of your life (no pressure there). I encourage you to get out and get involved in your community. Find a local church and small group and get plugged in; your freshman year is a great time to grow in your faith and make pure friendships with a Christ-like foundation.

Our freshman year will definitely be busy and it may be difficult learning to manage our time completely by ourselves for the first time ever. But it is very important to make time for Jesus during our freshman year. We can do this in a number of ways from listening to Christian music to writing down prayer requests to simply waking up fifteen minutes early to experience "quiet time" with Him. This will be beyond beneficial to your life and mental health.

1. "But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: while we were still sinners Christ died for us." Romans 5:8

Isn't it simply amazing that GOD would send his own son to come and die for us? We are flawed sinners, but God sent his son to wipe our slate clean. If that isn't one of the greatest things you've ever heard, then I don't know what is.

2. "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds." Philippians 4:6-7

This verse really hits home for me because the transition from high school to college has caused a lot of personal anxiety in my life, but this verse reminds us that nothing is worth as much stress as we allow some things. Hand it over to Jesus and He will guard your heart.

3. "For we live by faith, not by sight." 2 Corinthians 5:7

I actually view this verse as similar to a challenge. It's easy to believe in the things we can see but by only by trusting in Jesus even when we cannot see Him will we experience the truth behind His love for us.

4. "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father, the son, and the Holy spirit." Matthew 28:19

All nations can mean anywhere. For athletes like myself, your court or playing field is the ultimate mission field. Everywhere you go, you have a chance to tell someone about Jesus. Take that chance.

5. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." Proverbs 3:5

This is great. We always think we have it all figured out and that our plans are always fool-proof when in reality we are all fools. God's plan is always the best option; learn to trust in that one.

I hope everyone has a great freshman year!