As my last semester of college is approaching, I thought I should write a post for my readers who are about to start college or are already in college that want practical tips on how to have a strong relationship with Christ while in college.
Everyone knows in college you are super busy (you have classes, homework, studying, sporting events, student organizations, and the list goes on). I am not going to tell you that you won't be busy in college because that would be a lie. What I am going to do is tell you how to not let your long to-do list come before your relationship with the Lord.
1. Make your quiet time a priority
Whether it be in the morning when you first wake up or at night before you go to bed or anytime in between, make sure you have time set aside for Bible reading and prayer. I cannot stress enough how important this is. Our relationship with God is a relationship. You need to make time to intentionally grow this relationship. Studying my Bible in the morning before classes (in person or online) has been the best way for me. It shapes the course of my entire day.
2. Find Christian community/friends
Being involved in a local church's college ministry and then a campus ministry as well (Cru) played a big role in my college career. I met one of my best friends and roommates in Cru my first year at UT. It is the best to have a friend who loves the Lord and pushes you closer to Him. They can remind you of what is important and show you areas you can grow in your walk with the Lord.
3. Do not skip church or your campus ministry meetings
My friend Keerthana and I decided first semester of freshman year that we would not skip church or Cru for studying or homework. We both believed that if we kept the Lord as #1 in our lives, our grades would be fine. I have seen this proven to be true in my own life. (Don't misunderstand me, I work really hard in school. I just do not let that hard work hinder me from attending church and Cru). Once you start skipping, it becomes even easier to continue skipping, so just keep going. It'll be worth it.
4. Listen to worship music, podcasts, and sermons in your free time
It is so crucial that we fill our minds with the things of God. I love listening to worship music while I walk to class (pre-COVID since I now have online classes), and I also love to listen to worship music while I write papers. I typically try to listen to a Christian podcast or a sermon from church while I workout. This helps keep your thoughts centered on the Lord and what is pleasing to Him.
Your grades are important, going to football games and having fun with your friends is important, being dedicated to your student organizations is important, but nothing is more important than pursuing and serving Jesus with all you have. Don't lose sight of the Kingdom of God while you are in college.
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