Allow Your Mind to Abide in Jesus
Whatsoever Series:
“…through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope” (Romans 15:4b).
My friends, there is a mix of emotions at this stage of the semester! Final exam schedules and travel plans are approaching fast, and with those dates, your student’s return home is ever-present in your thoughts. You may be excited by the prospect of wrapping a huge hug around them. You might even be looking forward to cleaning that mountain of laundry that comes with them. Some of you may also be worried about reconnecting. Sharing space and schedules again may prove to be a source of stress for all family members because each of you has grown and changed in little ways that may not be obvious.
My husband and I experienced a variety of stresses while our children developed their own sense of autonomy and accomplished new levels of responsibility. We were (and are!) so pleased with how they were growing up, and yet, we were all still stressed by it.
If there is a lot on your mind, there is also a lot that may fill your student’s mind: anxieties, fears, worries, joys, doubts, memories, hurts, pain, plans, dreams, and prayers.
Am I going to make it (as an adult) is an all-encompassing question that wraps all the categories of thought into one!
The expectations that each of you has are meaningful and worth sharing with each other to minimize the impact of the stressful moments that will pop up during this season of change for your family.
If your mind feels cluttered and so busy that the noise of your own thoughts blocks your ability to focus on what God has called you to be as their praying warrior, then begin by being still physically. Breathe in, breathe out, and relax your shoulders. If just for two or three minutes a day, practice silence and solitude. Practice resting in Him. Be alone with Jesus and worship his quiet, gentle, strong, peaceful presence. Allow God to give you all of himself, in all His attributes, by the Spirit through Jesus Christ.
In Him, your mind may rest. “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love” (John 15:9).
Parent and Family Connections has several resources that might start your family’s conversations! Allow College Parenting articles like “How to Reconnect During Break” and “Becoming a Young Adult, Transition Well and with Honor” to start your family’s conversation. May the conversations engender hope in you as your family prepares for your student’s return home for Christmas and the winter break.
May the LORD’s power and the peace of His presence secure your thoughts, your steps, and your rest (Psalm 139, Blue Letter Bible app).
Meet the Author
Tamatha Anthony
Assistant Director
