One thing that college students seem to know well is stress an anxiety, and sometimes they may even know its dark cousin, depression. Some students never seem to listen to what our God is trying to tell them about this hard time. He is asking us to stay strong. He is testing our strength and our faith within him. Even when things seem to not be going our way, we must turn to prayer. Let us refer to scripture. “And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” Hebrews 11:6. This quote from Saint Paul leads us to make sure we are strong in our beliefs and that if we do believe that we shall be rewarded. We also need to know that this life is not our reward.

Our reward is eternal life with our Father in Heaven. We need to remember that we were given this life to serve God. Even if our past does not reflect the actions of doing so, we must accept God’s only son as our Lord and savior. Even if we have constantly prayed about our tribulations we must stay strong. Through the words of King Solomon throughout the book of Proverbs we know that we must not only fear our God, but also love him. In our love for our God we will be able to rejoice. “My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding” Proverbs 3:1-5.

I want to leave you with the next verse from Proverbs 3. “In all ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” Proverbs 3:6. We may lose our way. Many of us change our majors and some even drop out completely. We shall not humiliate those whom have had their path from God lead them in another direction different from our own. God does not want us to be similar, nor does he expect us all to be similar. God has a set path for us all. Through our faith we shall find what that path for us is. Be strong in prayer and never doubt yourself. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” Philippians 4:6.