Written by: Lucas Bueno
A new school year has begun here at Southern Adventist University. For many of you, this is your first year of college or your first year at Southern. For others, you are continuing your collegiate journey as a sophomore or a junior. For some, it is your last year — or even your last semester.
Though we have different majors, class standings, schedules and jobs, I would wager that there is certainly one thing we all have in common: fear.
Fear of the future. Fear of the known and unknown. With each semester comes new classes and assignments that might fill you with trepidation and stress, making you wonder how you will manage to successfully meet every deadline. Fear concerning paying for the expenses of each semester. Fear concerning one’s major.
As graduation grows near, many of us will worry about what comes next. Perhaps you already know what career path to take, but the search for jobs and a place to call home may fill you with anxiety and uncertainty. As a senior set to graduate in December, I have certainly been battling this fear.
However, we all have different reactions to the fears that we face. Some may choose to take the easy route in an attempt to avoid the difficult way. Others may choose to ignore the fear and just stay put where they are. But none of these “solutions” truly solve the situation at hand; they merely cause us to avoid or ignore it.
How can we truly face and overcome our fears this semester? In the Bible, we find a powerful answer.
Isaiah 41:10 says, “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
True, the future is uncertain, with many unknowns. And although you don’t know which way to turn, God is at your side. If you walk in faith, He will lead you into the wonderful plan He has for your life.
But even while walking with God, you’ll face moments of uncertainty. Both disappointments and victories will appear. However, the good news is that God knows the future and will be there to guide you on your journey. So, surrender your future and walk in His glorious plan. He will give you the strength to face your fears.
