As finals week approaches, it may get easy to let Christ drift from your focus. This is understandable considering the amount of stress that comes with big tests like finals. But rather than ignoring God, let Him help you overcome this period of stress. Hopefully, these Bible verses will help you do so.
2 Thessalonians 3:16
“Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. The Lord be with you all.”
I find it easier to study for exams when I have a clear head. When peace replaces overwhelming feelings, it is easier to focus on the task at hand. Peace may be inconceivable in such a stressful time as finals week, but it is possible with the Lord. Before you sit down to prepare for exams, it may help to ask God to grant you peace and to calm your mind.
Luke 12:34
“For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be”
While you prepare for finals, it is important to remember what really matters. Although you should dedicate time to study, you always have time to strengthen your faith. One way to make time for Christ is to break up long periods of studying with prayer, bible readings, faith-based podcasts, or online sermons. You should already be taking study breaks to rest your mind and reduce stress, but by filling those breaks with Christ, you would not only be taking care of yourself mentally but also spiritually.
Colossians 3:2
"Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth."
Although education is important, it should not be your number 1 priority. Faith should come up before all else. Therefore, when your workload becomes overwhelmingly heavy, remember this verse. Everything on Earth is temporary. Finals will be over eventually (as will the anxiety that comes with them). So, keep your focus on what is eternal. Not only will this strengthen your faith, but it will also provide comforting perspective.
Matthew 6:27
“Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life span?”
This verse is also one of perspective. It is easy to get worried about studying and getting good grades, but worrying will not positively impact either of these. I know not worrying is A LOT easier said than done. Being at peace during a stressful time is hard to achieve, so ask God to help you out. When I am struggling, I have to remind myself that whatever I am worrying about won’t last. Then, I ask God to keep that truth in my heart as I go forward.
Luke 12:26
“If even the smallest things are beyond your control, why are you anxious about the rest?”
This verse goes hand in hand with the previous as it, too, highlights the uselessness of anxiety, but I think this verse takes that idea one step further by pointing out our lack of control. It’s true that you do have some control over how your finals turn out. For example, you can control the amount of time you spend studying. However, at some point that control runs out. Once you turn in your test, you can let go of that anxiety, because there is nothing any amount of worrying will do. Instead, give yourself the rest that you deserve.
Comments