What students may not realize is that there is a lot of free time in college. Devoting a little bit of time to building your relationship with Christ is not as difficult as it seems. With some dedication and persistence, you can make Jesus your main priority each and every day. Below are some key habits that I have formed to keep my focus on the Lord during my college experience.
1. Devotionals
Each morning, I begin my day by reading some devotionals. There are so many amazing websites, books, and podcasts that explain the Gospel and share knowledge about how to apply scripture to your personal life. My favorite online devotionals include Our Daily Bread, My Utmost For His Highest by Oswald Chambers and Daily Devotion by Max Lucado. I also love to read Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. All these devotionals share a message or lesson and provide scripture to back up their wisdom. Reading a daily devotional is a simple way to learn more about God through the words of others.
“We have different gifts according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.” (Romans 12:6-7)
“Each of you should use whatever gifts you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:10)
2. Prayer
While it is so important to learn about Jesus, it is also important to communicate with him. Quick prayers throughout the day will keep your mind focused on Jesus instead of personal desires. Each morning I write a prayer that gives thanks, shares my thoughts and hardships, and asks for help and guidance. Just being able to communicate with the Lord gives me peace and comfort. I continually pray throughout the day as well. When something amazing happens, I give thanks to the Lord. When I face a difficult situation, I ask for God’s peace and guidance. When I am upset, I seek God’s love and joy. No matter the situation, I pray to God about what I’m feeling.
“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” (1 John 5:14)
“Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.” (1 Chronicles 16:11)
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” (Ephesians 6:18)
3. Reading the Bible
Taking time to read God’s word is such an important aspect of building Spiritual maturity. Many Christians don’t understand that reading the Gospel should be a priority. The Lord even tells us to do so! Take the time to read a bit of the incredible truth that God has created for his children. Not only is the Gospel an extraordinary love story about how God sent Jesus as a sacrifice for his children, but it also is a book filled with miracles, praises, and the hope of the future for those who are saved.
“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” (Romans 10:17)
“All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
4. Consistent Schedule
Consistency is key in every part of life. Athletes must consistently practice so that they improve in their sport, students must consistently study to get good grades, and parents must consistently discipline their children to teach them right from wrong. There’s no difference when it comes to your spiritual life. God calls us to live purposefully by devoting our lives to him and seeking his will. By being consistent with our spiritual journey, we are submitting ourselves more fully to Christ. If the Holy Spirit is within you, you will have the desire to learn more about Jesus. By making it a priority to communicate with the Lord on a consistent basis, we are preparing ourselves to be used by Christ in any way he needs.
“Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.” (1 Peter 1:13)
“Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” (Ephesians 6:14-17)
5. Join clubs/organizations
It can be a lot easier to make Christ a priority when you get involved with clubs where Jesus is the focus. At Susquehanna University, there are a few different Christian organizations that students can get involved with. Some of the major ones are Disciple Makers, Intervarsity, and Young Life. All three of these organizations have their own unique focus and purpose. They all have different bible studies and events where Christians can come together to worship and learn more about Jesus. Getting involved is a great way to meet other students who share the same values and beliefs as you. These organizations are helpful in bringing students together to help one another in their walk with Christ.
“As iron sharpens iron, so does one person sharpen another.” (Proverbs 27:17)
“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” (Hebrews 13:16)
6. Local church
Even if your campus doesn’t have a church, there are always local churches to go to and become involved with. Going to church on Sunday is something I look forward to doing. Having a place to worship Jesus with songs and praises makes me feel welcomed and a part of a family. Having a community of believers is so encouraging and reminds me how incredible the Lord is! I found a non-denominational Christian Church near my college called Higher Hope. The people are so loving and the environment makes me feel so grateful to be a child of God! Finding a church family can make such a positive impact throughout your college experience.
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another- and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)
“Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” (Acts 2:46-47)