Devotional Day 12: Back to School Nerves!

• Psalms 27:3 : "Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war arise against me, yet I will be confident."

• Ephesians 4:23 : "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."

• Psalms 46:1 : "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."
• Going back to school can be rough for both students and parents! There's a lot of stress involved no doubt.  I just wanted to share a few Bible verses that might help and some comforting words for young people of all ages and parents as well.

     I like to compare Psalms 27:3 to the first day of school! Its so nerve racking walking in, not knowing anyone, wondering who you'll be in class with,  who you'll sit with at lunch, or for college students, how your roommate will be or how the professor will teach! Sometimes its just nice to think of a few things that will bring you comfort! In the verse I mentioned above it brings up something very important: confidence. You have to be secure and confident in who you are! If you're comfortable with yourself then you'll have no problem displaying your personality to other people, which is an excellent witnessing time by the way. When you have God on your side there is nothing to fear. He's always there with you to guide and protect you! When you shine God's light through you people will notice, and you'll be a positive influence on those around you. Be confident that you are making the right choices, and you're a respectable person!

     You won't be the only one that's nervous those first few days of school! 98% of the other people around you will feel the exact same way you do! An important thing to remember to do is to be kind. Kindness, such a simple word. Show people understanding andcompassion. That's what kindness is to me at least. Give someone a helping hand whether its physically or mentally! We all need friends who understand what we are going through and are there to show kindness and comfort. Be tenderhearted and sympathetic to one another. You have to realize that everyone is in the same boat as you! Be the one that steps out as a leader and comforts those around you. Reassure people that we aren't alone, thatGod has blessed your heart with courage so that you might help others.

     The last thing I wanted to point out is be strong! That goes for both parents and students. Parents have to be strong in raising your kids, in comforting them. They are reflections of you in your most genuine moments. Be strong in your belief in your children. Stay strong in what you know they can achieve and reinforce your confidence in them everyday! And always listen to what God tells you. He can help you on your path to raising you children. Students, be strong in the person you are! Listen to your parentsand receive their help. They've been in the same position as you on several occasions so trust me, and them, they know what they're talking about! Stay strong in your beliefs as a child of God because Lord knows we face many temptations and pressures in school as we become older. Never sway from the path you know God has put you on! Believe in Him, believe in your parents just like they do you and things like the first day of school will be no problem for you.

                                                                       Questions/Application

• How do you think you can help comfort others?
• What does being a leader mean to you?
• Parents, how do you feel the first day of school? How can you help give your children confidence?
• Kids, how can you show that you appreciate what God and your parents have to teach you?