As school starts back for all ages, I want to provide some encouragement and tips from the Bible. First, know that no matter what your age is , you are called to be a Godly example to family, friends and community. 1 Timothy 4:12 NKJV says "Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity." Before you get worried, anxious or weighed down by this task, know that God does not expect you to be perfect. Romans 3:23 NKJV says " for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Being an example simply means living a life in front of others that points to Christ. When you stumble react accordingly, when things are good act accordingly.
Secondly, put in the work. I can hear the groans now but this gives us grounds to stand on. 2 Timothy 2:15 NKJV says " Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, righteously dividing the word of truth. The King James version starts off "Study to shew thyself approved unto God. What happens around finals time? We know a lot of fear, condemnation and anxiety happens and maybe some conviction. Know that fear, condemnation and anxiety are not from God. Conviction is. If you have worked and studied all semester long then you can stand on the fact that you have studied to show yourself approved. Here are a couple more Scriptures to spur you own to reach your destiny. Ecclesiastes 9:10 NKJV "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going." Meaning, If you want to accomplish something do it now before it is too late. Colossians 3:23,24 NKJV says "And whatever you do , do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord the Christ." Basically, We should do nothing to be pleasers of men, but of the Lord. Pleasing people is fleeting and you will never please everyone. Strive to please the One who created you, that comes with eternal rewards.
Third and lastly, I know school can be rough. You will not get along with everyone everyday. One tip to help stay out of conflict is 2 Timothy 2:16 " But shun profane and idle babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness." If conflict comes remember Ephesians 6:12 NKJV says" For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against rulers of darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in heavenly places." It is easier said than done when you are going through the attack not to fight in the flesh, I know. Ephesians 6:13 NKJV says " Therefore take up the whole armor of God , that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." Never give up! Reach out for prayer, I'm here.
I want to leave you with this verse. Ephesians 6:10 "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might." I will be praying for you and your success this year.