Anita was a freshman. And just like every other freshman on campus, she was excited about the new opportunities that awaited her at the university. The thrill that came with exploring a new adventurous chapter, reinventing herself, refining her skills, meeting new people and building new relationships that would last a lifetime, carving out a niche for herself, and being that exceptional lawyer, she had always dreamed she would one day become, felt amazing. Although Anita had all along followed her parents to church, and while in secondary school, had participated in church programmes and thought she was a Christian. But nothing beats the feeling that came with the newfound freedom and sense of independence she had discovered. No more parental rules, no peeping eyes looking over her shoulders to checkmate her activities, and best of all, she could do whatever she liked and wanted. Months passed and as the journey grew intense, Anita wavered and fell. She got caught up with the wrong crowd and neglected the counsel of wise leaders and the church because she believed she knew better.
Read More...Her grades suffered due to pressing distractions and her goals of being the best student went downhill all because she chose to neglect what was right and did what pleased her flesh. Just like Anita, a lot of students arrive on campus for the first time as brightly shining stars but eventually end up as dimly lit candles. To be honest, it is difficult most times as a Christian student to ignore the distorted culture of our university campuses. The culture made up of self-indulgence and harm, partying, sex, and cultism engraved in this dark world filled with lies, hate, and confusion. Maintaining your dignity in all you do, keeping your body pure, and staying true to your Christian faith is a war.
Even the most committed young believer will have his or her convictions challenged through the intellectual, academic, and philosophical rigorous journey in the university, thus, many will simply no longer find their growing relationship with God, attending church, or praying important anymore. With all these challenges how then do I stay armed for God? No one ever plans on getting battle wounds and never anticipates the challenges of life, but the greatest redemption of all time- your salvation in Christ enables you to trust the Holy Spirit inside of you to remind you that you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.
Therefore, Set your priorities straight and have no fear in embracing and acquiring academic wisdom, and while you do so, do not let anything or anyone undermine your faith. Study God's Word daily and seek to know Jesus more and more. Most times questions will inevitably arise from your experience inside and outside the classroom, and people will challenge your faith. When that happens, do not be afraid, instead, stay true to yourself and live as an example for others to follow. Stick with the right crowd- people who will help you grow academically, spiritually, psychologically, and mentally. Let your choice of friends be people who allow you to express your faith without judgment or mockery. Associate with a community of believers who will help you stay accountable to your actions and help examine and build your faith. Pray continually. Eloquence in prayer isn't a necessity. Tell God every little thing that troubles you in school and trust Him, believe He hears you and will help you. Indeed, others have had to endure the trials that accompany the Christian journey on campus and many have proven faithful in the end. It's never easy, but with perseverance, unfeigned faith, and commitment, you can as well make it and have a resounding testimony. God bless you.
WELCOME TO THE UNIVERSITY OF JOS.
(Editorial team, The Chapel of Faith, Unijos).
