As Christians, we must have comfort in knowing that our God is with us every step of the way. Some may think that praying to God about something “so small” isn’t necessary or in all honesty, it hadn’t even crossed your mind that, yes, you can go to God and should come to Him with every worry and emotion. The name of this is the ‘Christian Survival Guide…” however, for us, there’s the opportunity to not just survive, but the thrive in this season. Just as a small flower can grow through concrete, we are a people who throughout history have survive, grown, and thrived in difficult situations. We must remember this and have faith that God is still the same God that delivered His people throughout history.
Study the Word and look to verses and stories about perseverance and clinging to God. In James 1:12, it reads, “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” Life will always be difficult, whether we’re Christian or not. It’s often been said that, being afraid and still going forward despite that fear is what true courage is. It’s the same here. It’s when we remain faithful and run to God, even in trials and difficulties, that displays true faith and reliance on our Heavenly Father. God wants us to come to Him, especially in the most difficult points in our lives (Psalm 34: 17-19).
Chronicles 16:11 “Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually.”
As being reminiscent of Matthew 11: 28 (“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest”), this verse can remind us that seeking the Lord can give us the strength of a peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:6-7). Yes, you can trust in God. He knows everything, don’t you think He can help you remember the things you studied for? Don’t limit God in your minds, because God is unlimited. Seeking and going to God through His Word is a great first step to thriving during this time.
Open up the Word and see what God says and promises to those in dire need. Even if you don’t know where to start, there are plenty of online guides to verses that can help you:
1. https://christiantoday.com/article/8-bible-verses-of-encouragement-as-you-prepare-for-final-exams/109661.htm
2. https://faithfulchristian.net/bible-verse-about-studying-hard-in-school-for-exam-success/
3. https://www.patheos.com/blogs/christiancrier/2016/02/23/top-7-bible-verses-to-get-you-through-finals-week/
These can help you get started along with the hundreds more pages of sites and the Bible, filled with verses that can guide you. And what can these verses guide you to do exactly? Well, the next word of advice is to be guided to pray. Prayer isn’t just asking God for this and that, but it is a mode of communication to our Heavenly Father. We can go to God for and with anything, without judgement, but with absolute love. When praying prayer with the Word of God in our minds and in our hearts, we can hear God speak and gain encouragement, strength, peace, and even insight.
There are even sites that can guide you in prayer over your exams:
1. https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/prayer/8-encouraging-prayers-for-students-during-exams.html
2. https://www.prayerideas.org/final-exam-prayer-using-bible-verses/
3. https://connectusfund.org/14-best-prayers-for-final-exams
The Word coupled with prayer and absolute faith brings powerful results. Whether we pass or fail, with these things, we realize that no matter what happens, God has a plan. A plan to uplift and not to see us fall. It’s not about giving us the things we want, but the things we need and trusting in Him and knowing that He’s working for our good. YEF prays that each student reading may be successful in their faith, first and foremost and come to know God personally as a great and loving Father. We pray that you’d trust in Him and do great on your final exams!!