It's that time again…College Bound

And just like that….they’re off.
It’s that time of year again when kids (I mean young adults) head off for college.
Last night we enjoyed a final summer dinner and gave “see ya” hugs to three out-of-state-bound kiddos, whom are like my own. Maddie will be heading back USC, Olivia to complete her final year at UGA, and Hassan is off on a new adventure on a full-ride football scholarship to New Mexico Military Institute. *Sniff Sniff*

Holly and I just recently finished three college visits. Where does the time go? So the portrait I’m about to paint for you will definitely hit home for me next year as my second child begins her college career.
This morning I had the honor of taking Hassan to the airport. We had wonderful heart-to-heart conversations on the hour drive about family, life, school, the future, and God. As we talked about life experiences I related them to football. I asked him “What do you do when you don’t catch a pass? Give up and waller in not being successful or will that mishap cause you to strive for success and do better?” Of course he replied with the latter. I shared with him a phrase that Tim said last week when we were talking about a struggle someone we know is going through. Tim stated, “You have to go through it to come out of it.”
Yes! No matter if you are talking about a struggle in school, work, a relationship, or whatever, don’t let it defeat you. And…you’re not alone. God is always with you. Think about the story of when Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from Daniel 3. Remember when they stood up for God, were thrown into the fiery furnace, King Nebuchadnezzar looked in and saw that there were four figures walking around in the fire, he called the three men out, and they didn’t even have the smell of smoke on them! Who was with them? God! Why didn’t they smell like smoke? God spared them. They didn’t allow the struggle of even death get them down, they walked through it, and then got out of it. THAT only happens with God on your side. I love that story!
As Hassan and I were approaching the terminal I began to pray. I had to pause to calm the massive lump that was wailing up in my throat. He grabbed my hand and I continued to pray for him. While praying, Hassan squeezed my hand and my heart melted. I gave him a pocket-sized Gideons bible, helped him unload, gave a big hug, and we said our “I love you”s. Then…he’s off.
I drove away and continued to be emotional.
During this season of life when you or your loved one begins/continues college I hope that you will:

• Pray! Pray daily and give it to God. “Don’t worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks for what you have.” Philippians 4:6

• Rest. Rest in Him. “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.” Psalm 62:5

• Study. Study hard for your classes, and study His word. “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. ¹⁷ God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:5-6

• Strive. Strive to do your best! “In all the work you are given, do the best you can. Work as though you are working for the Lord, not any earthly master. ²⁴ Remember that you will receive your reward from the Lord, who will give you what he promised his people. Yes, you are serving Christ. He is your real Master.” Colossians 3:23-24

• Never give up! “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13

 
Remember…in life…you must go through it to make it out.
I pray many blessings and much joy for you! Have a wonderful day. – Stephanie
 
Ever since Hassan and his mom (Momma J) came into our lives a little over seven years ago, he’s always treated me like his second momma, and he even calls me “mom”. Momma J (Jackie), thank you for sharing Hassan with us. God’s got great plans for him.