First Baptist Church of Glenarden

GRACE - Fall 2017

Issue link: http://digital.corporatepress.com/i/886821

Contents of this Issue

Navigation

Page 42 of 47

Grace Magazine | www.fbcglenarden.org 41 The time has ce for a new beginning. It is (somewhat) overwhelming to think of taking that big, step into entering "uncharted territory" at a new school. Though it is important to have the ability to adapt to an unfamiliar environment, in elementary school, high school and college, it is also imperative that you do not change who you are as a person. Trying to remain unique in a world that wants you to be like everyone else, is challenging. Even though I have had my fair share of overcoming new school experiences, I still have more to learn and develop in my overall character, as I start my next journey as a college freshman. I want to share some encouraging tips on what I plan to do, in order to stay true to myself during college. Prayerfully, it will help you. Tip #1 - Stay ue to yrself (Joshua 1:8-9). Although this statement is very cliché, it's completely true. No matter how secure you are, you will be faced with con- flicts that will give you the choice to "go with the flow" or uphold your integrity. There was a time when I thought the only way to survive a new atmosphere was to blend in. Yet, while I was able to somewhat fit in with my surroundings, I never truly felt like I belonged. Believe me, resisting tempta- tion to fit in is easier said than done. As a child of God, you must continue to lead by example and know that Christ will forever be on your side. Tip #2 – Do not let dbt keep y panding yr chact (1 Pet 4:12-13). There have been several times throughout my journey where I questioned God and could not comprehend why I felt like I was the one chosen to endure the harshest consequences. I have learned to think more positively about my struggles as I mature. When it came time for me to take on more respon- sibility, and become an effective leader, I would constantly doubt my strengths and capabilities. As time passed, I could see my struggle of always being the odd one in the group, actually benefitted me in the long run. Eventually, I was led to people with whom I could be my honest self. I found that it was so much better to be accepted for who I was, rather than who I made myself to be. I realized that it is not my responsibility to know God's plan, but to walk boldly in faith and trust in Him. He's not always looking to be understood initially, He just wants us to follow Him. Tip #3 - Sess is necessy to push y to achieve eat things (Jemiah 29:11). Remember that God will not allow anything or anyone to come into your life, that is too much for you to handle. God instills in you all that you need, to conquer any obstacle great or small. Looking back on the pains of my past, I now under- stand that surpassing those troubles is what shaped me into who I am today. At times, I remember imagining different situations preventing certain things from happening when I first started at my new school. But then I would remind my- self that all of that was part of God's plan in helping me to get to where I am now. Whether it is growing accustomed to different teaching styles at your new school, or trying to maneuver your way into finding your place socially, you are strong enough to bear the change and overcome any discom- fort. Just know that any anxiety or moment where you feel as though you are being forced outside your comfort zone, usu- ally means God trying to build you into the amazing person you were called to be. Tip #4 - Not evy ptunity is prided by God. It's easy to get disacted (Ephesians 5: 15-17). Just because something enters our lives does not mean that it is automatically favorable. For whatever reason it still serves a purpose in life. I used to get excited when I was offered to try something new. Yet, what I thought was a privilege given by God sometimes turned out to be an obstacle that could have easily been avoided. However, there was a lesson in the situation that I needed to learn. Likewise, what God takes away from you, in terms of desired opportunities, is usually a blessing in disguise. He is saving you from internal destruction. Problems will come and although we may not always understand, they are there to give you the chance to grow and mature into what He has called you to be. Tip #5 - Evything happens f a reas and y e me than equipped to ce this change (Rans 8:28). Starting a new school, to some, can be an exhilarating op- portunity to explore new cultures and learn things that you never knew existed. To others, it might be a nerve-racking reality. However, God works in mysterious ways, and what we do not know often leads to our destiny. Enjoy this tran- sition, for it is wise to get the most out of this experience. Never forget, that no matter where you go, or what you do, prayer is your greatest ally. G Bria Bradley Teen Contributing Writer Bria Bradley is a graduate of Bowie High School. She's been a dedicated member of the Girl Scout Ministry for 14 years. Bria will be attending Ithaca College in the fall where she'll continue to share Christ's love on campus.

Articles in this issue

Links on this page

view archives of First Baptist Church of Glenarden - GRACE - Fall 2017