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I know a number of teens who are leaving town, home and our youth group to start college life.  I have enjoyed watching them grow and mature over the years.  Even though I am not their parent, I have a sense of pride in their accomplishments and share hope in their future and what they do as adults for career, family and service.  It is potential brewing, and we can’t wait to witness the culmination.

We all know that these new classes, relationships, living situations, and financial obligations come with challenges.  Excitement at the new can fade when our students have to daily endure expectations and push themselves.  We want to support and encourage them, but we can’t do the same things we did to help when they were at home and in elementary and high school. 

What are the “school supplies” God gives every student at every level?  These unique supplies are prayer – perspective – presence.  Prayer is talking to Someone who cares about the big stuff (“what is my major?”) and the little things (“why can’t I concentrate in this class?”).  Encouragement is knowing God answers through His Word, His Promises and His people.  Perspective is that things don’t always go the way we hope or plan, but God helps things work out for good (Rom. 8:28).  Presence means that God is with you through all these times.  He goes with you and provides the constant and consistency when you are away from your friends, your home, and your church. 

So we pray for our students on the move:  Lord, help our loved ones to remember you in prayer and perspective, and trust in your presence and love in all things.  Give them guidance and support and the encouragement they need.  In Jesus Name – Amen

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.  - Proverbs 3:5-6  (NIV)

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. - 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NASB)

Show me Your ways, LORD, teach me Your paths. Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are God my Savior, and my hope is in You all day long. - Psalm 25:4-5 (NIV)