Last week, we discussed three of the greatest fears of future college students. But most incoming college students have more than three major fears about college, so I’m going to discuss two more today:
Fear #4: I’ll fall away from my faith.
Whether you’re attending a giant secular university or a tiny Christian college, it’s likely that college will change you—for the good or the bad. You probably won’t be the same person as an incoming freshman and as a graduated senior. Maybe you’ll develop some great habits…or some terrible habits.
We’ve heard the statistics about college students who went to church before college and don’t go back after college. Yes, it’s always a possibility that your faith will grow weaker in college instead of stronger.
But don’t forget this: You aren’t a statistic. You’re a real human with a real heart and the real ability to make decisions. You can choose whether or not to attend a raunchy party, date a non-Christian guy, drink alcohol with your friends, skip church, or surround yourself with negative influences. You have a choice.
Fear #5: I’ll have to become a grown-up once I start college.
I totally understand this fear. It’s true that college offers some independence. Often, it’s viewed as a gateway to adulthood.
When you talk with family members or friends or people at your church, maybe it feels like they expect you to have your life figured out. They ask if you’re dating anyone, which job opportunities you want to pursue, and even where you want to live after you finish college! It may cause you to wonder if you should know the answers to all their questions.
But don’t forget this: Being a college student doesn’t make you an adult; maturity does. People may expect you to have your entire life planned out once you enter college but trust me—your plans will change a million times. It’s a good idea to have a plan, but remember that it’s normal for plans to change. It’s good to hold them with open hands. Focus on maturing in your faith rather than figuring out every detail of your life.
Closing Thoughts
And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19 NASB)
I included this verse in last week’s post and in today’s post because it’s such an important verse for future college students to know. Starting college doesn’t give us an excuse to worry. But I must confess that I did worry a lot when I started college. Still, God supplied my needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Did He supply 30 friends or a schedule full of easy classes or a perfect night’s sleep every day? No, but He supplied exactly what I needed exactly when I needed it (and things beyond my needs). Of course, I struggled when I started college—and you probably will, too. It isn’t meant to be easy. It’s hard work, and it can be nerve-wracking.
But never ever ever forget this: God will supply what you need when you need it. Just trust Him and obey Him.
Tizzie's Tidbits of Truth 