Fall is a season that is full of wonders. From the richness of the fall foliage to the warmth of cafes and cinnamon, there is no shortage of things to enjoy in the autumn season. But fall can also bring certain challenges. Not just the weather, which, in some parts of the country can be unpredictable, but also in our daily lives and activities. College students know that fall brings the core of their studies, and as fall turns into winter, it also brings studying, homework, and finals. Even those attending online seminary school understand the race that is the end of the semester.
To top it all off, we have the stresses of daily life. Work, family obligations, unexpected events — it can all begin to wear on us and bring us down if we aren’t careful. The good news is that we have words of encouragement from our Creator to see us through.
Don’t Worry
“So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today” (Matthew 6:34 NLT).
As people, we worry. We worry about how we will provide for our families, we worry about making mortgage payments, we worry about whether an online seminary school is right for us; the worry is never-ending. Or is it? In this verse, Christ reminds us that it is counterproductive to pile the worries of tomorrow onto those we encounter in the present. If we allow ourselves to get wrapped up in all the stress about what may or may not happen tomorrow, it is impossible to deal with the situations that arise today. Don’t make matters more complex and more difficult by worrying about them. Take one day at a time, and do your best in each day, trusting in the Lord to have your back.
Don’t Fear
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10 NIV).
Fear is all too often a driving instigator in the challenges in our lives. But fear is the antithesis of God’s desire for our lives. Even when things get overwhelming, what can overcome the strength of the Almighty? Here we have His promise written in black and white. When things feel too big or too daunting for us to face, it’s easy to give in to fear. But this verse reminds us that fear can’t strengthen us, only God can do that. If you’re fearing final exams at our seminary school, put your faith in God.
With Ears to Hear
“Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others” (Proverbs 12:15 NLT).
There are many stressors in our lives that can be solved through active listening. We do a lot of talking in our society. What would happen if we made it a priority to stop and listen to the people around us? Think of the insanity that is the political season; we’re sure you can think of a few friends or family members who have had their relationships put in jeopardy because of the inability to let go of political issues. Some people will shout until hoarse to have their point be heard, but what if they took the time to listen to what another person had to say? Common ground is the beginning of all negotiation and understanding, but common ground can never be reached unless two parties first consent to hear one another.
One of the best ways we can learn to cope with the stresses and challenges we face on a daily basis is to realize that we are never alone. God has promised in his Word to walk with us every day of our lives, and He has given us encouragement in ways we might not ever even expect. So this fall, don’t let your day-to-day activities cause you undue worry, give up your fears and take up the promises of God, and allow yourself to be open to the people around you. You’ll be surprised at the effect these three things will have on your life.
Colorado Theological Seminary students also have personal mentors, dedicated to helping them face challenges head on and discover their path and purpose in God’s plan. For more information, contact our Colorado and online seminary school today!
[uxi_button link=”post_id-349″ new_window=”0″ tel=”0″ class=”button-33″ padding_x=”” padding_y=”” text=”Contact CTS Today!” text_size=”14″ text_size_mobile=”” text_font=”header-font” sub_text=”” sub_text_size=”12″ sub_text_size_mobile=”” sub_text_font=”header-font” icon=”” icon_size=”12″ icon_size_mobile=”” icon_align=””]