As yet another summer comes to a close, I find it brings the excitement and apprehension of what a new school year will bring. Being a senior, heading off to college has become old hat, but I remember preparing myself for freshman year and the anxiety that brought with it. I aim this blog at graduating seniors, but it really applies to anyone embarking on something new with our lives (which is all of us at some point or another).
To those of you who with whom I have spent countless hours with this summer, know that with this new step comes many exciting things, but you must prepare yourselves spiritually for what you may encounter. The closeness and intimacy of groups such as the Agape Singers, or the camaraderie built up on mission trips is an amazing thing that, as you move on, must be left behind in a certain respect. Of course those people will still be there for you whenever you need them, but it is also time to take what you have learned from these groups, these people, and pour it out onto all the new people you will come into contact with. You have been blessed in order to be blessing unto others. It is in these times, where fear of the unknown could stop you from stepping out in faith, that you must discard your fears, your timidity, your doubt, and live out all that God has called you to. Use what you have learned this summer as a building block, knowing full well that your journey with God, your relationship with Christ has only just begun.
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
~ 2 Timothy 1:7
I urge you to take chances, try new groups, and to find a core of believers to build up and be built up by. The temptations, the distractions, the opportunities to fall off the path will become more numerous, but in beating these things comes great strengthening of your faith. If you are being tested by the Satan, then you are on the right path. If you were following the ways of the world, then he would have no need to try and sway you in other directions; by following Christ, Satan sees you as a threat and is working against us. Stand firm, pray continually, trust in Him, and all will be worked out for the good of those who love Him.
Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.
~ 2 Timothy 2:22
Moving on can be tough, scary, and challenging, but with Him, we have hope for our futures. Allow Him to use you, to change you, to make you and mold you into the person you are called to be. Do not worry and do not get caught up in your own plans, but rather trust in Him to work it out for your good. He loves you in ways we will never understand. Who better to have by our side than the Savior of our souls in this time of moving on?
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